Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu stated that Kan, who was the Director of National Security before the appointment, has been serving the police force for 32 years and has demonstrated professionalism with a high awareness of national security.

“He is capable of leading the National Security Department of the Hong Kong Police Force to shoulder the important responsibility of safeguarding national security,” Lee said.

Meanwhile, Lee promoted Li Kwai-wah, who initially served as senior superintendent of the National Security Department of the police, to chief Superintendent of Police for National Security.

“Even though both Mr Kan and Mr Li face the United States’ bullying act of gross imposition of so-called ‘sanction’, they are fearless, firm and dedicated to their duties,” Lee said.

On the same day, assistant commissioner of police (national security)(2) Kelvin Kong Hok-lai was appointed senior assistant commissioner and also succeeded Kan as Director of National Security.