The Government attaches great importance to the missing persons case involving shareholders and staff of a Causeway Bay bookstore and fully understands the community's concern.
The Government issued the statement today in response to media enquiries, noting Police are conducting a comprehensive investigation into the cases and have sought assistance from Mainland authorities for prompt response.
The statement said law-enforcement officers from other jurisdictions do not have the authority to take law-enforcement actions in Hong Kong, and they must abide by Hong Kong laws.
It said speculation should be avoided as the Police investigation is ongoing, and reiterated that the Government has always dealt with matters relating to the city strictly in accordance with the 'one country, two systems' principle and the Basic Law.
It also said the Government is firmly committed to protecting freedom of expression and publication, which are fundamental rights guaranteed by the Basic Law and the Bill of Rights Ordinance.
