XN000022-1997-04-16 — Page 50

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Number of triad-related crimes remains stable

Following are a question by the Hon Christine Loh and a written reply by the Secretary for Security, Mr Peter Lai, in the Legislative Council today (Wednesday):

Question:

It is reported that the recent fire at a karaoke bar killing 17 persons was suspected to have been caused by arson committed by triad members. In view of this, will the Government inform this Council whether:

Reply:

(a)

(b)

Mr President,

(a)

it has any policy of vigorously combating triad activities; if so, what the details are; and

it has carried out any study to ascertain if there is a widespread public perception that triad activities are prevalent and likely to become worse in the future; if so, what the outcome of the study is?

The Government has always accorded a high priority in combating triad activities by adopting a three-pronged approach, viz, dedicated Police units, supported by necessary legislation and a well formulated publicity strategy.

Dedicated Police Units

The Police have established dedicated units to take proactive action against triad activities. In 1994, the Organised Crime and Triad Group were split into two bureaux, namely, the Organized Crime and Triad Bureau and Criminal Intelligence Bureau, to deal with triad activities more effectively. In addition, both Narcotics Bureau and Commercial Crime Bureau take special interest in triad activities within their areas of responsibility. Apart from that, each Police Region has its own Anti-Triad Unit and each District has its own Anti-Triad Squad.

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