Police are planning to spend HK$5.78 billion to build three new information technology systems, including one that can efficiently transmit and share multi-media messages under emergencies, priced at about HK$5.2 billion.
One of the new communication systems can instantly send pictures, audio and video messages to enhance the efficiency of routine police operations and emergency services.
The system can also address national security needs and help lower the potential risk brought by geopolitical conflicts, the Force added.
Police suggested adopting a hybrid mode, with the government being the primary operator of the system and the business sector as assistance - meaning the government builds and runs the core network and the system's base stations while renting commercial network services - to make use of the advantage of coverage over wide geographical areas.
The suggestion is based on factors such as national security, communication safety and cost-benefit analysis, police noted.
The second system is a digital image processing platform that stores, possesses, handles, and allows users to search for digital images containing evidence or intelligence. It is expected to cost about HK390 million.
The platform will be coupled with artificial intelligence analyzing tools to help officers target suspects and identify cars and other items.
The third and last system handles police personnel information and is expected to cost about HK$190 million.
Police recalled that the personal information of officers and their families was leaked during the social unrest, and the Force has to further step up the system security.
It added that the existing relevant system has been in use for about 10 years and there is a need to build a new one to protect the personal data and privacy of the officers.