A lifting hook, its safety latch and a locking and releasing device of the safety latch are disclosed. The lifting hook includes a hook body having a hook stem and tip. The safety latch has a fastening end and a free latch end, the fastening end of the safety latch being pivotally fastened close to the stem so as to move the safety latch between an open position and a closed position, the safety latch being in its open position substantially against the inside of the hook body in a position that leaves a hook jaw free, while in the closed position the latch end extends across the hook jaw to the hook tip, closing the jaw on the inside thereof. A spring arranged between the safety latch and hook body forces the latch end into the closed position. The locking and releasing device includes a locking and releasing lever that is arranged to turn freely between a turning axle of the safety latch and latch end in the front area of the safety latch and that in its locking position rests against the hook tip and keeps the safety latch in its open position against the inner side of the hook body.