Secretary for Transport & Housing Prof Anthony Cheung says the Police force has been working closely with the bureau on road safety and related law-enforcement issues.

Speaking at a passing-out parade at the Police College, Prof Cheung said efforts to combat drug driving since legislative amendments were introduced in mid-March last year had begun to produce results with Police’s support.

He noted in the 12 months since the amendments took effect, officers made 121drug-influence recognition observations, did 34 impairment tests, and prosecuted 27 drivers.

A new legislative amendment was also introduced to enhance minibus safety in mid-April last year. Since then, police officers have stepped up campaigns to ensure road users' safety.

Meanwhile, he pointed out that increasing civic rights awareness, close media scrutiny, and public officers' accountability to the public highlighted the importance of protecting rights and freedom.

In this atmosphere, police officers face greater challenges as they must handle processions and demonstrations alongside combating crime to maintain stability in Hong Kong, he said.

A total of 41 probationary inspectors and 205 recruit constables passed out today.