Identification of Hong Kong riot officers using undisclosed codes on helmets is ‘unsatisfactory’, police watchdog says, calling for clarity and accountability
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Hong Kong’s police did not provide clear identification of its riot officers and more explanation is needed over the “unsatisfactory” handling of the matter, the head of a watchdog has said, citing accountability to the public and chief of the force.
Anthony Neoh, head of the Independent Police Complaints Council (IPCC), made the remarks on Friday after Commissioner of Police Stephen Lo Wai-chung confirmed that the force had replaced ID badges with alphanumeric codes on the helmets of its special tactical squad.
Police have been reeling from a massive public backlash after bearing the brunt of nearly three months of anti-government demonstrations triggered by the now-shelved extradition bill. Critics have accused police of using excessive force on protesters when dispersing crowds, while top brass countered that demonstrators had resorted to violence towards officers.
As of Thursday, the IPCC received a total of 183 complaints. Eighty-seven of the allegations, classified under neglect of duty, stemmed from complaints against officers for not showing their identification and for firing tear gas in crowded neighbourhoods, among other cases.