ENG-1986 — Page 245

PUBLIC ORDER

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During the year, the full benefit of the bureau's computerised exhibit handling system was realised. This resulted in a significant reduction in time spent preparing cases for court and, in particular, has eased the workload involved in preparing extradition papers within time limits imposed by the treaties.

The first joint Commercial Crime Bureau/ICAC task force was set up during 1986. This greatly facilitated a major investigation, utilising powers contained in both the Police Force and Prevention of Bribery Ordinances.

Hong Kong continues to be a centre for the production of high-quality counterfeit currency and other security printed documents, supplying both the home market and, increasingly, international groups of criminals. During the year, a number of workshops producing counterfeit currency, cheques and Indonesian Duty Stamps were located and neutralised.

The bureau's expanded capacity to liaise with overseas law enforcement agencies continued to produce a useful flow of information and prevented a number of frauds. Close contact with overseas police forces was maintained through Interpol and the bureau received a large number of requests for assistance through this body.

Public Order

There were no major incidents affecting Hong Kong's internal security during the year. Officers of the Police Tactical Unit continued to play an important role in maintaining order at major public functions. They were fully committed during the Royal visit in October, and had the honour of mounting guard at Government House in April during the stay of Princess Alexandra. During the year, 1992 officers from the rank of constable to superintendent received training in internal security tactics and methods of crowd control at the Police Tactical Unit base in the New Territories.

Bomb Reports

During the year, 70 incidents related to bombs and explosives were reported. These were categorised as 25 homemade explosive devices, 64 unexploded World War II military ordnance (mainly shells and aircraft bombs), nine cases involving the seizure of explosives and 23 reports which were made with good intent but were found to involve innocuous objects. In addition, 134 hoax reports were received and dealt with by either bomb disposal or general duty officers.

Illegal Immigration

Illegal immigration has continued to be one of the most serious problems facing the security forces. An average of 738 police officers were deployed daily to counter all forms of illegal immigration, including the detection and apprehension of persons who have evaded security surveillance. A total of 3 726 such evaders were apprehended during the year. This compares with a total of 16 832 illegal immigrants arrested while attempting to enter Hong Kong.

Patrols by Marine Police launches also helped to deter illegal entry by sea. The Illegal Immigration Bureau has taken effective action against syndicates bringing illegal im- migrants into Hong Kong, and a total of 339 persons were prosecuted during the year for involvement in such criminal activities.

Among the evaders who surfaced, 19 were found to be in possession of forged identification documents. This compares with 53 in 1985.