XN000022-1997-04-16 — Page 51

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The manpower of these units has been significantly increased over the years. In 1995/96, 400 Police officer posts were created for front-line operational duties, of which 45 were specifically assigned to anti-triad duties. In 1996/97, over 350 posts were created for front-line operational duties, of which 232 were devoted to anti-triad duties at regional and district levels.

Supporting Legislation

To ensure that there are adequate legislative powers to tackle the triad problem, the Organised and Serious Crimes Ordinance (OSCO) was fully implemented in 1995 to enhance the Police ability to investigate organised and serious crimes, including triad offences. The Ordinance makes provisions for special investigative powers, confiscation of proceeds of certain crimes including money laundering for certain offences. By the end of March 1997, the Police had made 24 applications to the courts for enhanced sentences and were successful in II of them involving 19 persons. The enhanced sentences ranged from an increase of one-third to two-thirds of the usual sentence. The total amount of proceeds of crime confiscated is more than $5.8 million.

In 1996, we introduced the Witness Protection Bill into this Council to enhance the effectiveness of the existing Witness Protection Programme and to establish a system for the change of identity of high- risk witnesses. If enacted, we believe that this will further encourage members of the public to come forward to give evidence, particularly in triad related cases.

Publicity Strategy

The Police need cooperation and support from members of the public in combating triad activities. To this end, the Police maintain on- going publicity and close liaison with the public. The Police Public Relations Branch plays a key role in this area by formulating a series of anti-triad publicity, including the screening of announcement of public interest on television, advertising billboards and the production of information leaflets. The Crime Prevention Bureau also liaises closely with shops and firms to encourage them to report triad activities.