HONG KONG -- The heads of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region's law enforcement departments Friday strongly condemned the violent acts that took place in the Mong Kok riot earlier this week.

In a joint statement, Hong Kong's Commissioner of Customs & Excise Roy Tang, Director of Immigration Chan Kwok-ki, Director of Fire Services Lai Man-hin, Commissioner of Correctional Services Yau Chi-chiu and Acting Controller of the Government Flying Service Trevor Marshall also expressed full support to the police.

They expressed deep concern that in blatant defiance of the law, the mobs damaged public property, set fires in multiple locations and constantly attacked police officers and journalists at the scene.

"Such reprehensible behavior went far beyond what can be accepted by Hong Kong society and we do not agree with people putting up excuses for the savage acts in an attempt to shift attention," the statement said.

They also showed full support and appreciation to Commissioner of Police Stephen Lo and the force for their efforts and contributions in upholding the rule of law and stability in Hong Kong.

As in the past, the disciplinary forces will stand united and continue to contribute to Hong Kong's law and order and stability, the statement added.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong's Government Disciplined Services General Union also issued a statement, condemning the rioters' violent act to attack and obstruct public servants to perform duties.

The union said all members of the disciplinary forces will remain at their post and to enforce the law impartially.