Security for Security Ambrose Lee has expressed concern over the recent surge of forged $1,000 notes, adding enforcements will be bolstered. Top priority has been accorded to the replacement of HSBC $1,000 notes issued in 2000 and 2002, with the 2003 issue which carries more security features.

Mr Lee told lawmakers today law-enforcement departments have stepped up investigations following the discovery of fake $1,000 notes. Police have so far seized 710 forgeries of $1,000 notes issued by HSBC in 2000 and 2002, arresting 12 people.

Commissioner of Police Tang King-shing said investigations unveiled the forged notes came from places outside Hong Kong. The Commercial Crime Bureau will liaise with Mainland and Macau authorities on the issue, and a hotline - 2860 5012 - has been set up for enquiries, he added.

Monetary Authority Chief Executive Joseph Yam told reporters that top priority has been given to the replacement of $1,000 notes issued by HSBC in 2000 and 2002, adding the number of such notes still in circulation is rather small.

He pointed out the 2003 issue carries more security features which people can identify easily, such as the use of variable optical ink in the denomination numeral. To learn more about the security features, click here.