Police Won't Act Against 'human Roadblock' Victims

The police have apologised and pledged not to prosecute three drivers who got caught up in a fatal crash after an officer slowed them down to obstruct a speeding vehicle on the Fanling Highway.

All three drivers were injured and their vehicles damaged – one of them a write-off – after the speeding car crashed into them. The driver of the speeding car and his fellow passenger died in the crash in February.

The police tactic of using civilians to act as “human roadblocks” came under severe criticism after the incident.

More outrage followed last week when it was revealed that the police had issued the three drivers with formal notices of intended prosecution, saying this was part of normal protocol. Critics, including lawmakers, accused the police of penalising people who were simply obeying orders.

During a meeting with the motorists affected and Democratic Party lawmaker James To on Wednesday night, officers apologised for issuing the notices, and pledged not to prosecute the trio.

A statement issued by the force also said the department is now reviewing issues involving vehicle pursuits, the setting up of roadblocks, and the issuance of intended prosecution notices.`

Officers added that they will continue to keep in touch with the drivers or their legal representatives over compensation issues.