Secretary for Justice Rimsky Yuen inspected a graduation parade of 27 officers and 68 assistant officers of the Correctional Services Department today.
Two officers were awarded the Principal's Shield and three assistant officers were awarded the Golden Whistle for outstanding performance.
Mr Yuen praised the department's staff, saying they are unsung heroes who watch over Hong Kong's safety.
He also described them as gatekeepers of the last element of the criminal justice system with a vital role in protecting public safety and reducing the crime rate by safeguarding the integrity of the criminal justice system.
He noted the department's efforts and achievements in community education in recent years for youngsters to learn about the criminal justice system and imprisonment.
Mr Yuen said the department has consistently adhered to the "unrivalled challenges" of emphasising both punishment and rehabilitation.
