In what is seen as a further illustration of the central government’s broad powers over institutions in its territory, the Chinese government has appointed a new police chief in Hong Kong.

The new Police Chief, Chris Tang Ping-Keung said rebutting fake accusations against police and reassuring the public about the force’s mission would be among his priorities.

“We have to maintain the law and order in Hong Kong and there is a massive scale of breaking of law in Hong Kong and there is a certain sector of the community that also condones those illegal activities,” Tang said in his inaugural speech.

Tang, who has been in the Chinese Police Force for more than 30 years takes over from Lo Wai-chung, who is retiring after 35 years of service.

The Hong Kong government however said Tang’s appointment was made ‘on the recommendation and nomination’ of Chief Executive Carrie Lam but with the final approval of the State Council or Cabinet in Beijing.

Hong Kong had before now enjoyed a reputation as one of the world’s safest cities and its police force was long hailed for its professionalism and incorruptibility.

However, the force’s image has suffered badly during the months of unrest amid allegations of the use excessive force, harassment of citizens and having connections with organized crime.