In response to press enquiries, an ICAC spokesman today (Tuesday) confirmed that 48 persons have been arrested for suspected corruption and involvement in illegal activities allegedly facilitated by graft.

The arrestees included 13 police officers -- two Senior Inspectors of Police, a Detective Station Sergeant, two Detective Sergeants, one Sergeant, four Detective Police Constables, and three Police Constables.

Thirty-five civilians, including 10 operators and staff of discos and karaokes, eight operators of vice dens and an illegal gambling stall, two masseuses, five other individuals, and 10 Mainlanders, were also arrested in the operation which commenced last night.

The ICAC operation, mounted with assistance from the Police, arose from corruption complaints. It was alleged that the arrested officers were suspected to have accepted advantages for offering protection to entertainment establishments, restaurants, ille gal gambling and vice establishments.

During last night's operation, the ICAC and the Police jointly raided an illegal gambling stall in Yau Ma Tei, as well as a number of entertainment establishments in the Yau Tsim districts.

The arrestees are still being detained. Inquiries are continuing.