On April 2, 2025, Hong Kong witnessed a significant transition in its law enforcement leadership as Chief Executive John Lee announced the appointment of Mr. Chow Yat-ming, Joe, as the new Commissioner of Police, succeeding Mr. Siu Chak-yee, who began his pre-retirement leave after 36 years of dedicated service. The Central People’s Government approved the appointment following Mr. Lee’s nomination, in line with the provisions of the Basic Law.
Mr. Chow, aged 52, brings nearly 30 years of exemplary service to the Hong Kong Police Force, having joined as a Probationary Inspector in November 1995. His career trajectory has been marked by rapid advancement, particularly between 2019 and 2022, when he rose three ranks in three years. Promoted to Chief Superintendent in 2016, Assistant Commissioner in 2020, Senior Assistant Commissioner in 2021, and Deputy Commissioner in 2022, Mr. Chow has now ascended to the top post. With the standard retirement age for senior police officials set at 57, he is poised to lead the force for at least five years, barring any unforeseen changes.
Chief Executive John Lee praised Mr. Chow’s extensive experience in criminal investigation, intelligence gathering, policy formulation, and personnel management. “Mr. Chow has demonstrated outstanding performance and leadership capabilities,” Mr. Lee stated. “I am confident that he will effectively guide the police force to meet future challenges.” Mr. Chow’s notable past roles include commanding the Criminal Intelligence Bureau, serving as District Commander of Yau Tsim District, and acting as Deputy Regional Commander of Kowloon West. Since 2020, he has overseen critical portfolios such as Operations, Personnel, and Crime and Security, earning accolades like the Hong Kong Police Long Service Medal (2013), the Chief Executive’s Commendation for Public Service (2020), and the Hong Kong Police Medal for Meritorious Service (2021).
Meanwhile, Mr. Siu Chak-yee’s tenure as Commissioner, which began in June 2021, was lauded for its impact on maintaining Hong Kong’s status as one of the world’s safest cities. Mr. Lee highlighted Mr. Siu’s steadfast commitment during periods of social unrest, emphasizing his resolve in upholding the rule of law. Under his leadership, the police force implemented robust measures to curb deception and crime, solidifying its reputation as a world-class law enforcement agency. “On behalf of the HKSAR Government, I extend my deepest gratitude to Mr. Siu for his contributions and wish him a fulfilling retirement,” Mr. Lee remarked. Notably, Mr. Siu’s departure coincided with sanctions imposed by the U.S. government on April 1, targeting him and other Hong Kong and mainland officials, including two Assistant Commissioners of Police (National Security), Ms. Chiu Wing-lan and Mr. Wong Chung-chun.
As of today, April 3, 2025, Mr. Chow Yat-ming assumes his role as Commissioner, stepping into a position that demands both resilience and vision to lead Hong Kong’s police force into the future.