investigating each allegation of corruption as a separate entity, the Branch investigates a broader area where the opportunities for corrupt practices exist thus providing a measure of prevention as well as detection.
Procedures and Trends
91. During 1968, as in previous years, the Branch received a flood of anonymous letters alleging corruption, each of which was considered on its merits. When compared with the number of allegations received during the year from all sources, anonymous letters accounted for some 66% of the total. However, in only nine cases (or 3.1%) of the total received, did investigations yield any result. These results pointed Branch investigations in a particular direction, resulting in dis- ciplinary action, e.g. warnings or internal transfers of suspected corrupt officers. Under a directive by the Anti-Corruption Target Committee at a special meeting in November, anonymous letters are now placed in categories according to the amount and quality of information they contain. The letters are then tabled before the Target Committee which considers their disposal. Thus, letters containing no information are filed away, letters containing little information are scanned and the information from them placed in the Branch card index system, whilst letters containing specific allegations are either the subject of enquiries by the Branch or are passed to the Head of the appropriate Government Department for his action. The adoption of this policy has already avoided a considerable amount of wasted effort, thus enabling the Branch to concentrate on the more serious priority targets.
92. The previous romanized card index system used in the Branch is now being phased out in favour of a Chinese Character Code System. This ensures correct recording of Chinese names, more positive identification and time saved during record searches. In addition, a colour code system for the indexing of suspect addresses has been introduced.
93. In April, the Branch duty hours were extended to assist members of the public in making reports on corrupt practices. The Branch is now open until 9 p.m. on weekdays, 5 p.m. on Saturdays and between 9 a.m. and 1. p.m. on Sundays and public holidays. In addition, two teams of investigating officers are on call in each 24 hour period. These arrangements are given constant publicity by all media.
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