The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:

     The Legislative Council Panel on Security visited the Identification Bureau (IB) of the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) today (March 17) to gain a deeper understanding on the forensics examination services and facilities of IB.
 
     Accompanied by the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, Members were first given an overview of the IB's structure and role in forensic investigation by HKPF representatives. IB is a specialist bureau providing, among others, professional fingerprint examination, DNA collection and firearms examination services. Members noted that IB plans to upgrade its Computer Assisted Palmprint and Fingerprint Identification System to further boost both examination efficiency and accuracy.
 
     Afterwards, Members visited the Crime Scene Investigation Mobile Lab, a specially retrofitted police vehicle put into operation in 2024 to assist HKPF in quickly obtaining fingerprint test results in serious cases.
 
     Members also visited the Forensic Fingerprint Lab, which was expanded in 2023, to observe demonstrations of how the latest technology helps HKPF quickly identify suspects and hence improve criminal investigation efficiency. Members noted that the expanded lab has strengthened the IB's capability to handle larger, more complex exhibits using sophisticated technology. On average, the lab examines over 36 000 pieces of evidence each year.
 
     During the visit, Members exchanged views with officers of the Security Bureau and HKPF on using artificial intelligence systems and other innovative technologies to support forensic examination work. They encouraged HKPF to continue leveraging technology in crime fighting and prevention, working together to safeguard Hong Kong.
 
     A total of 20 members and non-members of the Panel on Security participated in the visit.

Ends/Tuesday, March 17, 2026
Issued at HKT 17:50

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