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More eyes to detect IIs
| Lookout power: A Border District officer at the helm of the new hi-tech surveillance equipment |
New computer-assisted surveillance cameras have been installed along the land boundary at Tsim Bei Tsui, greatly enhancing the Force's powers to detect illegal immigrants.
The $6 million system, made up of nine cameras installed at strategic points, was the first of its kind installed at the boundary fence.
After successful trials since its installation in August, Tin Shui Wai Divisional Commander Albert Hau Tak-yan introduced the system to Yuen Long District Fight Crime Committee members and the media on February 28.
The system would work with the thermal detectors, infra-red monitoring telescopes and infra-red detectors that were already in place at Tsim Bei Tsui.
Mr Hau said the number of IIs arrested in Yuen Long dropped 41 per cent from 1,005 in 1999 to 590 last year. However, he stressed there would be no let-up in Police efforts to combat illegal immigration, particularly with the new equipment in full play.
Mr Hau said the downward trend over the last two years was comparable to the total number of IIs arrested across Hong Kong during the same period, a decline from 12,710 to 8,476. He attributed the fall to various factors, including the Force's use of effective anti-II strategies and advanced surveillance devices, along with co-operation with Mainland counterparts and other Government departments.
He said Marine Police also played a significant role. "Their ability to detect IIs in Deep Bay will be further enhanced when two lighters with advanced radar systems and thermal detectors are delivered later this year."