Commissioner Tsang Wai-hung on September 30 issued a message to all Force members, in which he said, "During the recent unlawful assembly at the Central Government Complex and its vicinity, the enforcement actions taken by the Force have attracted some controversies. The senior management fully understand the difficulty of the task, and the complexity of this unprecedented operation. In this very trying situation, you have remained steadfast, demonstrated extreme patience and performed your duties in the most professional manner throughout the operation.

 

Your unreserved efforts in serving the community in this critical moment are much appreciated by the senior management. I trust we will stay united, remain resolute, and overcome this challenging situation together."

 

CP also visited officers on standby for Operation SOLARPEAK at various locations on October 1, and shared with them his understanding of the trying circumstances that they had encountered in the operation. He expressed great appreciation to all officers for their steadfastness in face of adversity and their courage in overcoming all difficulties for the ultimate good of Hong Kong. He said we were all upright and dignified police officers who acted in accordance with the laws of Hong Kong.

 

In particular, CP appealed to officers that the Force, as the agency of the first and last resort, had the ultimate responsibility to maintain law and order for the good of the seven million Hong Kong citizens. He said, "At this critical time, we must stay united, be restrained and patient, and continue to remain steadfast in our duties for the greater good of Hong Kong."

 

CP also expressed his understanding of the grave responsibility we were shouldering and the feeling of being misunderstood. But he pointed out that even though some citizens might not understand our duties and responsibilities and criticized us, still a vast majority of Hong Kong citizens stood by us and showed their strong support for the Force and quite a lot of them went out of their way and sent fruits and snacks to Force members as encouragement.

 

Lastly, CP highly commended the professionalism and unreserved efforts displayed by the officers engaged in the operation and reminded them to take care of themselves and take a break whenever possible.