Future single border inspection deemed safe

Security authorities assured the public of the safety of the upcoming single border checkpoint initiative after coverage emerged accusing it of increasing security risks by curtailing the double-inspection procedure.
The policy, which allows singular inspection for mainland entry permit holders, was expected to first come to force in the new hub connecting the northern Macau peninsula and Zhuhai, according to the Secretary for Security, Wong Sio Chak.
Currently, locals holding a document known as the ‘Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macau Residents’ have to respectively undergo inspections at both sides, either through machines or customs counters. The new initiative is expected to merge the totally independent checks into one automated process.
The travel document is only issued to residents of the two Chinese special administrative regions with Chinese nationality. The policy for other residents remains unchanged.
The Public Police Security explained on Wednesday that the process would still require verification from both sides, which involves the existing electronic operations systems. Furthermore, as the policy involves a substantial amount of personal information, it was said to require further elaboration with the mainland authorities over technologies and regulations.
A final scheme is expected by the end of the year. It was also stated that the policy would likewise be extended to the immigration checkpoint at the Hong Kong, Zhuhai and Macau Bridge in the future. AU