Hong Kong’s customs chief Chan Tsz-tat emphasized the importance of safety after an off-duty customs officer was involved in a fatal motorcycle crash. The officer attempted to intercept a motorcyclist, identified as Wong, who was fleeing from police on January 3. Unfortunately, the incident ended with Wong crashing into a metal pole, leading to his death at the scene. Following this tragedy, the officer has been placed on leave pending investigation, highlighting that customs personnel must be accountable for their actions at all times, whether on or off duty.

Speaking about the incident on a recent radio program, Chan stated, “as part of the disciplined services, a customs officer ought to do his part for society, as long as it is legal and safe on- and off-duty.” This comment comes amid widespread public debate regarding the appropriateness of the officer’s actions, particularly after dashcam footage surfaced showing the moment the officer attempted to block the motorcycle, leading to the tragic outcome. The public outcry has initiated discussions on the standards of action that officers should adhere to in critical situations.

Chan reiterated that customs officers receive “very clear instructions” and “very comprehensive training” to ensure their operations are both legal and safe. He remarked, “whether one is carrying out his duty in his official capacity or doing anything off-duty, he must be held responsible.” Following Wong's high-speed pursuit, which initially began over concerns regarding a poorly fitted license plate, Chan expressed sorrow over the unfortunate incident but refrained from commenting on the specifics, as the case is currently under criminal investigation.

While Chan acknowledged the courageous spirit inherent in most disciplined service officers, he clarified the necessity for these officers to prioritize safety during their duties. He maintained that performing actions based on courage should also align with legality and reasonableness, stating, “all these actions must be legal and reasonable.” This incident has thus raised important questions regarding the balance between public duty and individual safety in law enforcement.

In addition to addressing the recent incident, Chan also shared ongoing efforts by customs to tackle the smuggling of seditious materials, which continue to challenge authorities in Hong Kong. He pointed out that customs officers are trained to identify suspicious items and take appropriate action without compromising legal standards. Recent developments have exemplified the continuing complexities faced by law enforcement in safeguarding public order and addressing infringements effectively.

For further details, please refer to the reports by SCMP and SCMP.