In his foreword, Commissioner Tang King-shing said the past year proved to be a very positive one for the Force in pursuit of "our vision that Hong Kong should remain one of the safest and most stable societies in the world". "It was a year in which we continued to build upon the strong foundations established over the past decade in respect of providing a modern customer-orientated police service to the community," he added.

In regard to the crime situation, Mr Tang pointed out that despite a slight increase in both overall and violent crime in 2006, the low crime rate of 1,160 crimes per 100,000 residents continues to compare most favourably with other metropolitan cities worldwide. "I am particularly pleased to report at year's end a decline in the number of crimes that have a direct bearing on how citizens and visitors view their own personal safety," he noted.

Looking ahead, the Commissioner noted that 2007 promises to be another busy year for the Force with a number of major events due to take place. "Foremost among these are the celebrations associated with the tenth anniversary of the establishment of the HKSAR, and the test events for the 2008 Olympic Games Equestrian Events," he said.

Copies of the full colour publication are being distributed to Formations.