Lau Bo-keung's proposal was undoubtedly the most efficient procedure available for bringing Zhang Peng under control.
With the officers from the Police Force's National Security Department strongly supporting it, he naturally would not cling to outdated thinking.
Information technology was highly advanced now, even if their case-handling procedures required formal documents on paper.
But the moment their superiors issued an arrest warrant, that order officially took effect.
Taking appropriate measures against Zhang Peng on the basis of an electronic copy of the arrest warrant was entirely lawful and compliant with procedure.
The only debatable point was whether investigators like them from the mainland's Supreme People's Procuratorate had the authority to operate within Hong Kong Island.
But Lau Bo-keung's permission had clearly put that concern to rest.
After all, the National Security Department would be responsible for arresting the target, and they would only take custody after he had been escorted through Lo Wu Port.
"Sir Lau, thank you for your tremendous support."
His face full of gratitude and delight, Hong Liang cast aside all concern for his composure and immediately clasped both of Lau Bo-keung's hands.
"There's no time to lose. I'll contact my superiors right away and report Zhang Peng's situation."
After shaking his hands vigorously, before Lau Bo-keung could even react,
Hong Liang had already turned and hurried to the window where he had taken the earlier call, and begun contacting senior officials in the mainland's Supreme People's Procuratorate with sufficient authority.
"Director Hong, we still have plenty of time."
This series of actions brought a helpless smile to Lau Bo-keung's lips.
His operation to close the net would also take some time.
With all the evidence of Zhang Peng's crimes now collected, the operation would give Hong Liang enough time to obtain formal authorization for his arrest.