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Clifford Lo

To cut costs, Tai Po regional HQ tenders out its security work

Private security guards have been recruited to replace officers guarding police regional headquarters in Tai Po, it was disclosed yesterday.

The move was introduced last month as part of the force's cost-cutting measures and to ensure more effective deployment of frontline officers.

Under the new measure, the regional headquarters becomes the first police station to be guarded by security personnel.

But, citing security reasons, the force's spokesmen declined to reveal how many guards were being deployed, nor would they comment on whether the scheme would be extended to other police stations.

Guards are now stationed at the reception counter to check visitors at the ground-floor main lobby of the New Territories North regional police complex in On Po Lane.

They are also responsible for the security of the building's parking lot. Previously, a sergeant and a constable were assigned to run the reception counter.

A police spokesman confirmed yesterday that the new measure came into effect at the beginning of last month.

An unnamed private security company, which was awarded the job through a public tender, is responsible for the management and security of the regional headquarters.

Lau Kam-wah, chairman of the Junior Police Officers' Association, believed the move would not undermine the daily operations of the station and could turn out to be a blessing for officers.

'As long as police-related matters are handled by our officers,  I see no problems,' he said. 'The money saved in the scheme may go to other areas. If new posts are opened as a result,  the promotion prospects of officers would improve.'

But this is unlikely because the force will have to slash about 900 posts as part of a government plan to save $280 million in the new financial year.

In a separate cost-cutting measure, a number of stations will be merged, such as Shamshuipo and Shekkipmei, and Tsuen Wan and Lei Muk Shue. Police said each merger could save an average of $8 million to $10 million a year in operating costs.



Private guards stand watch at police complex