Police expand drone patrols to Peak, outlying islands to combat crime

Hong Kong police will expand their drone patrol program to the Peak, Cheung Chau and Lamma Island from Friday, enhancing round-the-clock crime-fighting capabilities.

Under the "Operational Deployment of Drones" pilot scheme's second phase, drones in automated hangars will patrol these areas, while aerial patrols for crime suppression extend to Central, Sau Mau Ping, Yuen Long and Tsuen Wan districts.

Superintendent Ko Chung-ying from the Major Events Bureau Key Points and Search Division said the new sites feature complex, vast terrains. Drones with thermal imaging can monitor hard-to-reach areas day and night.

Peak district commander Lee Kwok-yiu said a 20-minute drone flight can cover about 150 hectares, encompassing over 100 estates and key infrastructure. Thermal imaging detects suspicious activities on hillsides, and real-time video aids in locating lost or injured hikers.

Cheung Chau district commander Lau Kin-hang noted drones cover alleys and hillside paths, replacing one to two hours of foot patrols with 15 to 30 minutes of flight. During the annual Bun Festival, drones monitor crowded areas and provide aerial alerts.

The scheme's first phase, launched in May last year, involved 664 automated patrols in border areas and 302 anti-crime aerial patrols in West Kowloon, leading to 14 cases solved and 13 arrests, including drugs, theft and wanted persons. No complaints or accidents were reported.

Ko said the scheme strategically integrated drone technology with police units, established operational protocols and ensured data security during transmission.