Commissioner values front-line communication

The new police commissioner, who took the helm of the force at the thick of the street violence, plans to adopt a fresh style — using pragmatic communication with front-line police officers, local residents and politicians in the community — to bring Asia's finest back to their former glory at what is undoubtedly its most critical juncture.

The veteran police officer assumed the top post of the Hong Kong Police Force in November at the height of the street violence. It was a time when police officers' morale was being undermined by the months-long incessant social unrest and continual fake news, as well as the doxxing and online bullying of police officers and their family members stemming from anti-police sentiment.

Living by his pragmatic beliefs, Chris Tang Ping-keung was seen several times at the front lines during the height of street violence.

"I prefer communicating with different levels of colleagues to avoid misunderstandings. It is my belief that management today should set good examples, convince people with good reasons and bear responsibility," he said. "I visit the front line to thank them and see if they have any difficulty. I think they are happy seeing me and are willing to talk."

Recently, the veteran commander and some senior police officers also attended several District Council meetings at several districts to answer questions by district councilors, even often-hostile questions from unfriendly newly elected politicians from the opposition camp.

"Our principle is to tell the truth in the proper manner," Tang said.

But Tang's efforts to tell the truth were interrupted several times at such meetings, which turned out to be stages for the opposition politicians to vent their anger and badger the officers with questions.

Tang expressed his regret for such behavior from the opposition politicians, saying it wasted the public's time.