Overseas sympathies

I am writing with a heavy heart. Like the entire community of Hong Kong, I am greatly shocked and saddened by the tragic death of Police Constable Leung Shing-yan. He joined after my time in the Force (1979-1995).

It seems impossible to speak of any consolation in the face of such a bitter loss by the family and there is not much one can say at a difficult time like this. I would like to extend my heart-felt sympathy to them. I hope they can find some comfort in their special memories and in the thought of the happy moments they have shared. PC Leung, like all frontline officers, strived to serve and protect with the highest order of courage and professionalism. I trust that shock, grief and anger have not been confined to the community but have extended to all former officers, like myself, wherever they may be. I trust the Force's vow to solve this brutal crime with an all-out concerted effort has never been clearer. I wish the Force every success in this regard.

Richard Chan Ping-kin
Former Chief Inspector, Vancouver

I have been a law-enforcement officer in the United States for 21 years and when I heard what happened to PC Leung I was shocked. We, as sworn officers to uphold law and order, always expect the worst. For a cold-blooded killer to gun down a law-enforcement official, this is unacceptable.

A Chinese, I work as an investigator for the Attorney General's Office and have the opportunity to interview many police officers. Even after 21 years as a patrol officer prior to this job, I can still feel the pressure our officers face on the frontline.

I would like to send my best wishes to PC Leung's family. I understand that there is nothing we can do to change the situation but I hope the management and the rank-and-file will look at the system again in a different light.

Patrick Chao, Connecticut