Drone operations set to combat driving offenses as HK records 288 serious incidents

Hong Kong police will launch a pilot project using drones to combat illegal driving, targeting traffic black spots at Shek O Road and Route Twisk. The new initiative was announced after the city recorded 288 fatal and serious injury traffic accidents in the first seven months of the year.

Although this figure represents a 47 percent decrease from the 548 cases recorded in the same period last year, authorities are implementing new measures to enhance enforcement.

The force’s Traffic Branch Headquarters disclosed these statistics at a press conference on Thursday, noting that the accidents resulted in 321 casualties, including 49 fatalities and 272 serious injuries.

Despite the overall decrease, some figures showed a concerning rise. Pedestrian deaths increased by 21 percent, with the majority of fatal accidents involving trucks.

A police spokesman stated that while a small number of fatal accidents are caused by pedestrians, most involve reckless driving by motorists.

Motorcyclist deaths also saw a significant increase, rising 43 percent to 10. Three of those killed were holders of probationary driving licenses.

Regarding the upcoming drone operation, the force said the measure is designed to address such dangerous driving behaviors.

The technology will overcome geographical restrictions, allowing police to monitor accident-prone areas like sharp bends and steep inclines.

Drones will record violations—such as speeding and reckless driving—from a high altitude, with penalty notices to be issued after confirming the driver's identity, said a police spokesman.