Secretary for the Civil Service Patrick Nip visited the Police Force today to learn more about the use of technology in police investigations and meet staff to exchange views on matters of concern.

Accompanied by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Management) Kwok Yam-shu, Mr Nip visited the Crime Support Group and was briefed on the Major Incident Investigation & Disaster Support System's functions and operation.

The system is used mainly in large-scale incident investigations, victim identification in disasters and epidemic case analyses.

Mr Nip was interested to learn more about how Police make use of the system to assist the Centre for Health Protection in tracing sources of infection and contact tracing for confirmed cases during the COVID-19 epidemic.

He then proceeded to the Cyber Security & Technology Crime Bureau for an update on its work in combating technology crime and safeguarding cyber security in Hong Kong.

Mr Nip also toured the Cyber Range, which is equipped with advanced training management systems to facilitate team-based simulation exercises on cyber defence in a virtual environment. The range helps enhance the force's capabilities in detecting cyber threats and handling cyber security incidents.

The civil service chief thanked police colleagues for their dedication and professionalism in coping with the challenges arising from social incidents during the past year and the COVID-19 epidemic.

Wrapping up his visit, Mr Nip met staff representatives of various grades and conveyed his warmest regards to police officers who were attacked and sustained injuries in last year’s social incidents.

He also encouraged Police to stand fast and protect public safety.