Forty citizens are commended at the Good Citizen Award Presentation Ceremony

Forty citizens were commended at the Good Citizen Award (GCA) Presentation Ceremony on February 24 for helping the police fight crime.

Speaking at the ceremony, Director of Crime and Security Lo Mung-hung pointed out that the crime figures in 2015 had dropped to the lowest level since 1979 as a result of a law-abiding community, effective law enforcement and close partnership between the police and the community. Commending the GCA recipients for their exemplary alertness, judgment and courage, he also urged members of the public to continue joining hands with the police to fight crime.

With the help of the awardees, about 40 persons were arrested for a variety of offences, including telephone deception, theft, burglary, robbery, wounding and indecent assault.

One of the awardees was also presented with the Good Citizen of the Year Award (GCYA). The winner, Mr Tsang Yik-tsun, helped the police arrest a man who snatched a mobile phone last July. Mr Tsang chased after the man, who fired two shots at him with a pistol-like object. Unharmed, Mr Tsang continued the chase and subsequently subdued the man. The man was convicted of theft and resisting arrest with an imitation firearm and was sentenced to two years and eight months' imprisonment.

Another awardee, Mr Chan Wai-tak, helped foil a telephone scam. He received a phone call from a swindler who claimed that his son was being detained, and demanded a ransom. After confirming that his son was safe, he reported the case to the police and helped arrest the swindler.

Each of the awardees received a certificate and a cheque for $3,000. The GCYA winner was also presented with a plaque and a cheque for $4,000.

The Police Public Relations Branch organises the GCA twice a year with sponsorship of the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce. More than 4 000 persons have been commended over the years.