Assistant Commissioner (Crime) Chung Siu-yeung signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Executive Director of Enforcement of the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC), Mr Thomas Atkinson, on August 25 to formalise co-operation between the Hong Kong Police (HKP) and the SFC in combating financial crime.

Covering a range of matters including referral of cases, joint investigations, the exchange and use of information and mutual provision of investigative assistance, the MoU establishes a framework for closer collaboration on policy, operational and training matters of both sides.

Thus, the MoU will further strengthen the working relationship between the two parties and enhance their overall effectiveness in dealing with wrongdoing in the securities and futures industry.

Mr Chung said, "This MoU represents a milestone in our co-operation that forges an even closer partnership between the two organisations in combating crimes and illicit activities in the securities and futures markets."

Mr Atkinson said, "Close collaboration with the HKP allows the SFC to discharge its regulatory functions with greater efficiency and effectiveness. We have always valued the support provided by the HKP and we look forward to even closer collaboration with them."

The Commercial Crime Bureau (CCB) will continue to be the designated contact point for liaison between the HKP and the SFC. The MoU has been uploaded onto CCB's webpage for reference.