Troop review: Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Stephen Lam inspects a contingent of Police graduates at the Police College.

Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Stephen Lam has commended the Police for maintaining security during the recent Olympic Equestrian Events.

Inspecting a passing-out parade at the Police College today Mr Lam said Hong Kong is indebted to the Police for keeping the city's law and order situation good. He said Police play an important role in ensuring the smooth running of large-scale events, such as the upcoming Legislative Council Election.

"Internationally, Hong Kong is a very safe city with the lowest overall crime rate among other metropolises. Also Hong Kong's overall crime detection rate of 45% is the highest among cosmopolitan cities. The crime rate in the first half of 2008 has dropped by about 5%, including certain more serious crimes," he said.

During the Olympics public order was maintained and the events were held smoothly under the spotlight of the international community. The success is attributable to the dedication of all force members, he said, enabling Hong Kong to showcase its ability to host top international events and enhance its image as a cosmopolitan city.

He called on the graduating officers to maintain the fine traditions of the force by being a clean and fair disciplined service and serving the community according to the rule of law.