CP Eddie Hui greets IPCC head Robert Tang at PHQ

That was the message from IPCC Chairman Robert Tang in his Hong Kong Letter broadcast on RTHK's Cantonese-language Radios One and Five on March 11.

Mr Tang said he believed with increased observers, the IPCC could be more effective in monitoring police investigations into complaints to ensure cases were dealt with fairly and impartially.

"I believe the observer scheme may be able to remove some of the doubts surrounding the existing system of officers investigating complaints against their counterparts, with IPCC monitoring and reviewing investigation results," Mr Tang said.

"I hope an increase in observers can allow the IPCC to have sufficient numbers to observe the whole, or a good part, of the process of investigations into serious complaints. I expect to increase the number of observers in the near future."

He said once measures to strengthen IPCC work procedures were implemented, the public could assess its effectiveness to see whether it was necessary to disband CAPO or to transfer part of, or all of its investigative power to the Council.

Introduced in April 1996, the scheme allows observers hold scheduled or surprise visits to CAPO offices or police stations to watch complaint investigations.

Mr Tang said in the broadcast that appointed observers have rich work and community service experience and sufficient knowledge to assess the impartiality and fairness of investigations. They can interview complainants, officers and witnesses, and visit scenes to look for witnesses or collect evidence, he added.

Director of Management Services Douglas Lau Yuk-kuen pledged full co-operation with the IPCC in their monitoring of Police investigations into complaints against officers.

"We are fully transparent in all we do, with IPCC members having full access to all areas. An increase in observers is welcomed as a greater participation by IPCC in the complaint process will ensure our position that all complaints continue to be thoroughly and impartially investigated by Police," Mr Lau said.

"Improving the quality of services provided is a primary objective of the Force and, as customer service initiatives continue to roll out Force-wide, the emphasis is now firmly on fostering a culture of service. Ultimately, this should result in a significant reduction of complaints."

Meanwhile, Mr Tang and eight IPCC members visited Commissioner Eddie Hui Ki-on at Police Headquarters on March 18. They also toured Wan Chai and North Point Police Stations.



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