G.F. 323
0003230
CONFIDENTIAL # 機密
14
37.
The approved establishment of the Narcotics Bureau is 192 all ranks, excluding civilian staff back- up who are not operational and therefore not considered for the purpose of this study. Its strength is gradually being brought up to this as shown in Annex C.
38.
In view of the size and scope of the problem, of the international aspects to it already mentioned and of the growing concern which it has caused, there would appear to be merit in considering the separation of the Narcotics Bureau from the Criminal Investigation Department. It could then become a Branch of the Force in its own right, perhaps commanded by an Assistant Commissioner, with the enlarged sections under Superintendents rather than Inspectors as at present and with the level of the other posts being simultaneously reviewed. The timing of such a reorganisation must depend in part on the expansion of the Bureau itself; but other considerations are important, such as the operational requirements and scale of investi- gations and political factors.
(a) Action against Major Organisers.
39.
Insufficient evidence is available to enable criminal proceedings to be instituted against known major syndicate operators. If it continues to be impossible to obtain enough, or so to disrupt their operations that these become unprofitable, further consideration will have to be given to dealing with them in other ways.
40.
One might be to set up a permanent Commission of Inquiry under the Commissions of Inquiry Ordinance, Cap. 86.
Witnesses summonsed to appear before it, who could if necessary be granted immunity from prosecution, would have to be required to answer the questions under penalty of substantial imprisonment if they refused.
41.
However, it is considered that the introduction of such a procedure is something to be kept in mind for the future rather than a measure to be brought in now.
CONFIDENTIAL
機密
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