The Police Force has been facing increasingly complex difficulties in recent years but, with public support and the determination of officers, it has risen to the challenges to ensure public safety and social stability. Deputy Commissioner (Operations) Lau Yip-shing made the remarks when he inspected a passing-out parade at the Police College on November 17.

Speaking at the event, Mr Lau said being a police officer is not only a career, but also a mission. He mentioned particularly that officers remained steadfast in helping the needy under dangerous and harsh conditions when severe typhoon Mangkhut stormed Hong Kong. He said this showed their care for Hong Kong people and their mission to serve the public. He hoped the police graduates would always keep in mind the mission of safeguarding Hong Kong and serving the community.

Mr Lau encouraged the graduates to carry out their duties with integrity, honesty, impartiality and fairness, and to act with courage, perseverance and determination. He added that they should keep abreast of the times and strive for continuous improvement. He also urged them to enhance their abilities to uphold law and order and to interact with people so as to fulfill the Force's vision of "We Serve with Pride and Care".

Lastly, prior to his retirement, Mr Lau expressed his gratitude to the Force for the nurture and trust given to him, and thanked fellow officers for their support and care. He said he was honoured to have grown up with such a professional, committed and excellent Police Force.

A total of 52 probationary inspectors and 169 recruit police constables graduated from the Police College on that day. A video of the passing-out parade is available on Police Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/HongKongPoliceForce/videos/286527008641255/).