A seven-member delegation from Information Systems Wing (ISW) and Liaison Bureau (LB), led by Senior Superintendent Toby Chow Oi-wang from ISW's Business Service Bureau, visited two units of the Ministry of Public Security (MPS) from March 12 to 14, namely, the Information and Communications Department and the Interpol National Central Bureau (NCB) China of the International Co-operation Department.

The visit is in line with two of the main objectives laid down in the 2005-2008 Three-Year Strategic Action Plan - Operational Capability and Mainland Interface. The visit has also made contributions to the key operational areas as stated in the Commissioner's Operational Priorities 2007.

The visit was aimed at sharing knowledge and experience in the realm of information technology and communications infrastructure, as well as strengthening the ties with MPS departments.

The Director General of the Information and Communications Department, Mr Zhao Dabin, and the Deputy Director General of the International Co-operation Department, Mr Xue Dongzheng, extended a warm welcome to the delegation.

The delegation studied NCB's Case Workflow Administrative System (CWAS) with a view to making it a valuable reference for the future automation for LB to improve its efficiency and communications with Mainland authorities and overseas law enforcement agencies. Having observed NCB's CWAS computer equipment and demonstrations, the delegates were amazed at its advanced technology and ability in rising to challenges.

The Deputy Director General of the Information and Communications Department, Mr Xie Yiping, then personally introduced and demonstrated the various advanced functions of the MPS Information and Communications System.

"The system development is very fast and is a good reference for us," commented Mr Chow.

Throughout the delegates' trip, the Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Affairs Office of the MPS looked after their visit programme, and its Director, Mr Liu Zhiyuan, also extended a warm reception.

Back in Hong Kong, the delegates see their visit as a valuable opportunity to share experiences and acquire a better understanding of the work of the Information and Communications Department and NCB, as well as the challenges they face in their day-to-day work.

The trip has also updated the delegates on policing on the Mainland, apart from facilitating exchange of experiences.

Mr Jiang Haifeng, Sectional Chief of NCB, demonstrates the various functions of the CWAS