Retired officers can rejoin Hong Kong police as part-timers under scheme to tackle staff crunch

Retired officers can rejoin Hong Kong police on a part-time basis to carry out street patrols and certain other jobs under a new initiative to tackle frontline staff shortages, the force’s chief has said.

Commissioner of Police Raymond Siu Chak-yee revealed the new scheme on Tuesday as the chairman of the junior officers’ association said “severe” manpower shortages had affected peer learning for novices.

Siu told the association’s National Day reception that constables who had left the force for no longer than three years could return on a part-time basis.

“Besides hoping to relieve pressure on frontline manpower, this will also provide an opportunity for experienced staff to mentor young staff, passing on their precious work experience to the next generation to pass on a legacy,” Siu said in a speech.

The part-time post-retirement service contract scheme was introduced on September 12, according to a document seen by the Post.

Constables who have retired from the force for no more than three years or who are starting pre-retirement leave before next March can apply.