‘Hidden dangers lurk in every corner’: Nat. security chief tells new police recruits to root out threats early

Hong Kong police chief Andrew Kan has warned new recruits that hidden dangers exist in every corner of the city, and they must remain vigilant against national security threats. Kan addressed 17 probationary officers and 110 recruit constables at a passing-out parade for the Police College on Saturday. He cautioned them to watch out for "external forces," "soft resistance," and "ideological infiltration," though he did not provide specific examples of these threats.

Kan also warned that while Hong Kong may appear peaceful on the surface, there are "undercurrents everywhere" that police must identify and address to prevent national security risks.

Commissioner of Police Joe Chow echoed Kan's message during a press conference after the ceremony. He noted that "a small number of people are still eager to incite others' hatred," citing recent arrests of individuals who chanted slogans near Prince Edward MTR station. Despite the overall calm social atmosphere, Chow emphasized that police would continue to evaluate each demonstration based on factors such as public safety and potential national security risks.

The sentencing of Tiananmen vigil activists Chow Hang-tung, Lee Cheuk-yan, and Albert Ho has drawn criticism from overseas human rights groups, who argue it represents a setback for freedom of expression in Hong Kong.