Drug conference was an eye-opener
Narcotics Bureau Superintendent, Mr Stephen Lee, and Senior Inspector, Mr Keith Yip, represented the Hong Kong Police at the 8th Asia-Pacific Operational Drug Enforcement Conference (ADEC VIII), which was hosted by the National Police Agency of Japan in Tokyo in early February.
The Conference brought together senior officers of the drug enforcement authorities of the Asia-Pacific countries and regions. Its main objectives were to promote the exchange of information on drug syndicates and their trafficking activities, and to work jointly towards establishing a regional network in drug control among law enforcement agencies. The theme of ADEC VIII was: 'It's time to Act: Go for International Joint Operations'.
Over 25 delegations from 21 countries and 22 observers from European countries and Russia turned up for the Conference. There were presentations from selected countries and experience sharing workshops tightly scheduled throughout the four-day Conference. Officials from the United Nations Office of Drug and Crime and the Chief of Intelligence from the American Drug Enforcement Agency also attended and made valuable contributions. In the end, the Conference endorsed a 'Joint Declaration for International Joint Operations to Counter International Drug Trafficking Organizations'.
"The Conference was a total success. It enabled participating countries to share their experience on drug fighting, nurture mutual understanding and establish contacts at working level. Now, I find myself much better prepared for the job," Mr Lee added.
"Although the schedule was tight, Mr Yip and I still managed to seize every opportunity during longer breaks and after a day's work to explore the Japanese culture via the very efficient and user-friendly subway network conveniently located near the hotel in which the conference was held. The most unforgettable experience of our exploration was a visit to the wholesale fish market at Tsukiji before dawn and a 'once in a life time' Sushi breakfast. We were also very well treated by our hosts who, on the last day of the Conference, organised a short trip to a local police station and some hot tourist spots," he concluded. 
NB SP Mr Stephen Lee: "It was a great experience for me."