ENG-2012 — Page 328

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Public Order

In April, CAPO introduced a pilot 'Expression of Dissatisfaction' mechanism for handling minor complaints, which aimed to expedite resolution and allow better resource utilisation.

To maintain public confidence, the IIO continues to promote the Integrated Integrity Management Framework to reinforce the police force's values of integrity and honesty. A set of behavioural guidelines, introduced in 2009, aims to raise officers' awareness and acceptance of ethical behaviour on and off duty.

Independent Police Complaints Council

The Independent Police Complaints Council (IPCC) is an independent statutory body established, among other things, to:

• observe, monitor and review the Police Force's handling and investigation of reportable complaints;

monitor actions taken or to be taken in respect of any member of the Police Force by the Commissioner of Police in connection with reportable complaints;

identify any fault or deficiency in police practice or procedure that has led to or might lead to reportable complaints and make recommendations accordingly;

• advise the Commissioner of Police and/or the Chief Executive of its opinion and/or recommendation in connection with reportable complaints; and

• promote public awareness on the role of the council.

Its 24 members, all appointed by the Chief Executive, are drawn from a wide spectrum of society with diverse expertise. In addition, the council had 110 observers at year-end. These observers, as well as the council members, may attend interviews and observe the collection of evidence conducted by police formations in respect of reportable complaints on a pre- arranged or surprise basis, to ensure that investigations are conducted in a fair and impartial

manner.

In 2012, the IPCC scrutinised and endorsed the findings in 3,299 investigation reports on reportable complaints received in 2012 or carried forward from previous years, involving a total of 6,744 allegations. Of these, 259 allegations were found substantiated or partially substantiated and the police force has taken appropriate action against the officers involved.

Customs and Excise

The Customs and Excise Department is responsible primarily for the collection of revenue on dutiable goods, prevention of duty evasion, suppression of drug trafficking and abuse, prevention and detection of smuggling of contraband, and protection of intellectual property rights. The department also enforces legislation to protect consumer interests, safeguard and facilitate legitimate trade and industry, uphold Hong Kong's trading integrity and fulfil relevant international obligations. At year-end, its establishment was about 5,640 staff. (See also Chapter 5).

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