CS visits Police to learn more about anti-epidemic work (with photos)
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Accompanied by the Chief Superintendent, Crime Wing Support Group of the Hong Kong Police Force, Ms Tsang Yim-sheung, Mr Cheung received a briefing on how the Police have made use of the Major Incident Investigation and Disaster Support System (MIIDSS) to provide effective support and assistance to the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health regarding its epidemiological investigations and relevant contact tracing for confirmed cases. The MIIDSS, a data-processing computer system, is used mainly in work such as large-scale incident case investigation, identification of victims in disasters and epidemic case analysis.
He learned that the Police have been liaising closely with the CHP since the Serious Response Level under the Preparedness and Response Plan for Novel Infectious Disease of Public Health Significance came into effect. They have also activated the use of the MIIDSS in view of the latest developments of COVID-19 to provide support to the CHP's work.
Mr Cheung also met with front-line staff responsible for MIIDSS analysis to learn about their work. "The relevant system is essential in assisting in the tracing of the sources of infection and people who have come into close contact with confirmed cases. I am most grateful to colleagues of the Police Force for their hard work and contribution to the prevention of the spread of the disease," he said.
He also learned that the Police have spared no effort in tracking down offenders who have violated compulsory quarantine orders. As at 8am today (April 2), 80 persons under home quarantine had been found by the Police to have breached quarantine orders and were sent to quarantine centres.
"Given the severe epidemic situation, the Government will exercise zero tolerance towards breaches of quarantine orders and stringent enforcement action will be taken. I appeal to the public not to defy the laws," he said.
He was also briefed on the Police's anti-epidemic work on other fronts, such as combating mask scams and maintaining order in quarantine centres. Since the implementation of the Prevention and Control of Disease (Requirements and Directions) (Business and Premises) Regulation (Cap. 599F) and the Prevention and Control of Disease (Prohibition on Group Gathering) Regulation (Cap. 599G) last week, various government departments, including the Police and the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, have been inspecting regulated premises in various districts to check for non-compliance and remind the public to comply with the requirements of the Regulations through verbal explanation, advice or warning.
"Police officers have been standing steadfast in their posts and joining hands with other government departments in the fight against the epidemic. I urge members of the public to be self-disciplined, stay home as far as possible and continue to comply with the measures for maintaining social distancing so that Hong Kong can overcome the epidemic before long," he said.
Ends/Thursday, April 2, 2020
Issued at HKT 19:01
Issued at HKT 19:01
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