In order to implement the Commissioner's Operational Priorities 2014 on Terrorism, a Force level Counter Terrorism (CT) exercise, codenamed PINCHKNOT, was conducted between June 5 and 12.  The exercise, coordinated by the Counter Terrorism and Internal Security Division of the Operations Wing, had two main objectives - to assess the effectiveness of Force level CT plans and procedures and the inter-operability of units in conducting a proactive CT operation; as well as to heighten the overall CT awareness and readiness of all formations and units within the Force.

 

The exercise involved two phases. The first phase was a tabletop exercise involving all land Regions and Force CT units. The second phase was a practical simulation exercise involving deployment of officers on the ground in response to a scenario concerning exercise targets entering Hong Kong to engage in terrorist attacks in major transport network.  

 

With the deployment of officers from New Territories South Region, Railway District and all Force operational units with key CT responsibilities, including Special Duties Unit, Counter Terrorist Response Unit, Headquarters Command and Control Centre, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Bureau, Police Tactical Unit Headquarters and Police Negotiation Cadre, the exercise offered a very good opportunity to practise CT response procedures and protocols.  

 

The Security Bureau as well as Fire Services Department, Immigration Department, Customs and Excise Department and Marine Department were invited to observe the exercise. 

 

The Incident Commander, Assistant Commissioner (Operations) Cheung Tak-keung commented that the exercise was a stern test of the Force's CT capabilities and this intensive exercise was also a rewarding experience which demonstrated that the Force was well prepared and able to face the security challenges posed by global and regional terrorism. 

 

Mr Cheung added that as it is the case with all exercises, there are valuable lessons to learn which will be used to fine-tune the Force's CT plans to make them more robust and effective.