Non-executive Chairman of the MTR Corporation (MTRC) Professor Frederick Ma said that with a well-trained, highly capable and disciplined police force, Hong Kong earned its reputation as one of the world's safest cities and provided a safe and comfortable environment for citizens to live, work and travel.

Professor Ma made the remarks when reviewing 44 probationary inspectors (PIs) and 283 recruit police constables (RPCs) at a passing-out parade in the Hong Kong Police College on April 14. He hoped the graduates would become the pride of Hong Kong people.

Professor Ma said that the MTRC has been working closely with the Police Force to ensure public safety. He particularly expressed his gratitude to officers of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Bureau for swiftly and efficiently defusing two World War II bombs found earlier at a Wan Chai construction site of the Shatin to Central Link. This ensured the safety of MTRC staff, nearby citizens and Hong Kong at large.

He mentioned that the Railway District (RAILDIST) of the Police Force is responsible for maintaining public safety within MTR stations and along the railway network. In addition to daily patrols at stations and in train compartments to combat crime, RAILDIST will, in case of major incidents such as train accidents or serious delays, immediately co-ordinate the affected land Districts and related departments to ensure that passengers are safely evacuated.

Professor Ma said that under the threat of terrorist attacks globally, the Police Force and the MTRC are vigilant in strengthening anti-terrorism measures and stepping up patrols in stations to enhance the safety of the railway system.