Cops gas up with tactical coaches

Two new large-sized police tactical coaches that can fire tear gas have arrived and the force hopes, if needed, they can be deployed in time for the 25th anniversary of the handover.

The two coaches are among 50 new tactical coaches purchased by the Police Tactical Unit. They have a bigger capacity compared to current police vehicles, and will be used to carry police personnel.

It is understood the other 48 tactical coaches will arrive this year.

With more interior space, they can carry 18 to 20 officers and speed up boarding and alighting for fully geared officers.

The rear has larger spaces for more equipment, sources said.

The new coach has a row of three small windows near its roof, which are believed to be used to fire tear gas during "emergencies."

It also has a higher defense ability as there are multiple surveillance cameras on the roof, allowing the driver to monitor the surrounding area at all angles.

Sources said the coach is equipped with opaque windows - similar to vehicles used by the Correctional Services Department to escort prisoners - so that people outside cannot see in.

The two coaches that have arrived are still in the experimental stage.

The two coaches are white Benz vehicles with police signs. They are running on trade licenses or temporary plates while officers test their functions.

The coaches are expected to be deployed by July 1, when Hong Kong celebrates the 25th anniversary of its handover.

Earlier, the police have also purchased three mainland-made water cannon "in response to the challenges brought by an increasingly complicated social environment and operation needs," making it a total of six.

Police said the three "specialized crowd management vehicles" costing HK$9.9 million arrived last year.

It is understood that the power of new water cannon is the same as existing ones, and the three trucks are currently under examination by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department in a process that is expected to finish by next month or March.