ENG-1999 — Page 359

PUBLIC ORDER

Communications

The digital trunked radio platform project for the Criminal Intelligence and Narcotics bureaux and the Marine Police Communications System progressed well during the year. Projects commissioned included the new air-to-ground radio network as well as computerised targetry systems for firing ranges.

In addition to continuously upgrading the facilities for the Police 999 Emergency Call Centres, the Line Communications Division was conducting a research study to formulate a long-term strategy for the force's line communications infrastructure.

Planning for the replacement of the second generation Command and Control System made good progress. The third generation Command and Control System, which will provide all beat patrol officers with the most advanced digital communications facilities, is targeted to go 'live' by 2004.

Radio and electronics maintenance services for police launches were enhanced as a result of moving the Police Marine Radio Workshop to the Government Dockyard.

Information Technology

The Traffic Operations Management System went into use at all Traffic formations in January to improve efficiency in handling the force's daily traffic operations.

The Transport Management Information System (TMIS) 2 began service, leading to better deployment of the police vehicle fleet and drivers. The STORESMAN System, which improves efficiency in the managing and handling of all stores-related items, was introduced.

Three other systems became operational: the Photo Album System assists witnesses in crime cases in identification of suspects through on-line photo browsing; the Facial Identikit Tool helps quickly compose facial drawings of suspects for crime investigations; and the Formation Information Kiosk provides timely and accurate crime information to improve beat patrol management.

Rectification and validation of computer systems with the Y2K problem were completed and Y2K contingency plans were prepared and tested. A Y2K Special Technical Task Force was formed to co-ordinate and handle all technical issues related to Y2K and the force computer systems during critical dates.

Service Quality

During the year, the force continued to build on its well-proven 'Living-the-Values' programme through force-wide consultation involving members at all levels. The process was reinforced by an integrated survey strategy which merged surveys on public opinion, staff opinion and customer satisfaction to better measure and track the force's effectiveness from different angles.

After a successful pilot scheme at North Point, Sau Mau Ping and Sha Tin police stations, the Customer Service Improvement Project will be rolled out to 59 police stations and operational bases over a three-year period.

Complaints Against Police

The Complaints Against Police Office (CAPO) investigates all complaints from the public concerning the conduct and behaviour of force members. Investigations are monitored by the Independent Police Complaints Council (IPCC), an independent

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