New Territories North (NTN) Region staged a multi-agency exercise "FIRESWEEPER V" in Yuen Long District (YLDIST) on October 7 to strengthen the capability of the Force as well as other relevant government departments and public bodies in handling a major incident.

The exercise simulated a gas leak which caused a serious explosion at a construction site, leading to the collapse of a performance stage at a nearby outdoor concert and the crashing of a helicopter in an air show. A group of teachers and students, who were conducting an eco-tour in the vicinity, were affected. Over 100 casualties were reported.

More than 500 officers from Operations Wing NTN Regional Headquarters (HQ), Emergency Unit NTN, Police Tactical Unit C Company (NTN), Quick Reaction Force NTN, Regional Command and Control Centre, Traffic NTN, Crime NTN Regional HQ, YLDIST, Marine West Division, the Disaster Victim Identification Unit and Police Public Relations Branch took part in the exercise. YLDIST Commander Fok Lok-sang took up the role of Field Commander at the site. Also participating in the exercise included the Fire Services Department, Hospital Authority, Government Flying Service, Auxiliary Medical Service, Civil Aid Service, Electrical and Mechanical Services Department and a gas company.

The participants took a series of follow-up actions, including search and rescue of the victims, preservation of evidence and site investigation, casualty documentation as well as handling media and public enquiries. Subsequently, NTN Region conducted an evaluation with all stakeholders and suggested recommendations with a view to enhancing the co-ordination and professional capability of the involved departments/organisations in handling major incidents.