New Territories North (NTN) Region hosted a multi-departmental exercise, codenamed "EARTHHELPER", in Sha Tau Kok Division (STKDIV) and Tai Po Division (TPDIV) on November 1 with a view to enhancing the operational capability and co-ordination among NTN units and other government departments in the event of an influx of illegal immigrants from the Mainland.

The exercise simulated a large number of illegal immigrants taking speedboats and landing along the Hong Kong shore, followed by a series of incidents including a maritime accident, logging of incense trees, armed robbery and hostage taking. One of the key areas of assessment in the exercise was the response, communication and co-ordination among the frontline units and departments concerned over an extensive operational ground.

With concerted efforts of Police Tactical Unit (NTN), Marine North Division, Small Boat Division, Emergency Unit NTN, Quick Reaction Force NTN, STKDIV, TPDIV, Regional Command and Control Centre of NTN, as well as Fire Services Department, Government Flying Service, Marine Department, Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department and Civil Aid Service, the exercise concluded smoothly.

The participants found the exercise useful as it provided a valuable opportunity for operational commanders from various departments and the Force to execute the operational plans together, as well as to review and identify rooms for improvement on operational tactics and procedures to curb illegal immigration.