Once hailed as a ‘rising star’ in the Hong Kong Police Force, Chief Inspector Ho Siu-tong appeared in the District Court on 9 April 2025 without legal representation, claiming he could not secure legal aid. Charged with accepting over HK$1.14 million in bribes and gifts from a businessman, Ho’s case has gripped public attention since his arrest by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) in September 2024. However, he is not alone—several officers have faced imprisonment for crimes in recent years, raising concerns over discipline and integrity within the force.
Ho Siu-tong’s Corruption Case
Ho Siu-tong gained prominence while serving in the Wan Chai District, frequently representing the police at press conferences on high-profile cases. Yet, the ICAC alleges that between 2022 and 2023, he abused his authority to favour a businessman in exchange for cash and gifts, including children’s clothing and handbags, while leaking internal police information. On 4 September 2024, Ho and his wife, Ho Yin-wing, were charged with “acceptance of an advantage as a public servant” and “misconduct in public office.” They first appeared in Eastern Magistrates’ Court on 6 September. At a hearing on 31 October, Ho was remanded in custody after failing to pay a HK$1.2 million bail, and the case was transferred to the District Court, where it was scheduled for plea on 21 November. His latest court appearance revealed he lacks legal representation, reportedly due to an unsuccessful legal aid application.
Recent Officer Convictions
Ho’s case is part of a broader pattern of police officers facing criminal convictions over the past two to three years, exposing persistent disciplinary challenges:
- Former Officer Chui Chun-man – Incitement (2023)
On 27 February 2023, former officer Chui Chun-man was convicted in West Kowloon Magistrates’ Court of “doing an act with seditious intention.” In September 2021, he posted comments on social media, including the police’s Facebook page, about the death of Senior Inspector Lam Yuen-yee, who drowned during an anti-smuggling operation. Deemed provocative and seditious, his remarks led to an eight-month prison sentence on 4 March 2023. Chui had served during the 2019 protests before leaving the force. - Officer Sexual Offences (2021-2023)
In 2021, a former officer was sentenced to 46 months in prison for indecent assault and unlawful sexual acts with underage girls between 2017 and 2018. Following a review, his sentence was increased to five years by 2023, underscoring the judiciary’s stern stance on such crimes. Though the initial trial predates 2023, the sentencing review reflects ongoing scrutiny. - Seven Officers Assaulting Protester (2017, related to 2014)
In February 2017, seven officers were convicted of assaulting Occupy protester Tsang Kin-chiu in 2014, each receiving a two-year sentence. Caught on camera beating the subdued demonstrator, the case—though earlier than 2023—remains a landmark example of police misconduct. - Minor Criminal Offences (2023-2024)
Police reports and media indicate officers were convicted in 2023 for stealing evidence, such as cash or valuables, during duty, with sentences ranging from a few months to a year. Similar incidents occurred in 2024, though detailed names and figures remain undisclosed.
Calls for Police Reform
In May 2023, the Security Bureau stated that the police maintain a “zero-tolerance” policy towards illegal or disciplinary breaches, urging the public not to judge the force by isolated incidents. Yet, Ho’s case and others have fuelled doubts about oversight and recruitment standards. Political commentator Mr. Lee noted, “The police have faced immense pressure since the social unrest, but internal management and ethics training clearly need reinforcement.”
A police spokesperson reiterated their commitment to tackling unlawful conduct and enhancing internal investigations. The public, however, hopes the force can strike a balance between enforcement and self-regulation to restore trust.
