Some 40 mentors and mentees of the Police Mentorship Programme (PMP) gained a better understanding of the responsibilities of and challenges faced by the Marine Region during a visit to the Marine Regional Headquarters (RHQ) on January 12.

Senior Superintendent (Operations) of Marine RHQ Lau King-lun, who is also a PMP mentor, briefed the mentees on the special features of maritime policing work. He said, "We undertake a range of responsibilities, such as search and rescue operations as well as anti-smuggling and illegal immigrants operations, to guard Hong Kong waters. In response to the global trend of terrorist activities, we also strive to enhance our counter terrorism preparedness and response capabilities."

Then officers of the Marine RHQ outlined to the mentees the organisational structure of the Region, the relevant legislation and procedures, specialised skills and tactics to maintain safety at sea. They also led the mentees to visit the Marine Regional Command and Control Centre, and explained how officers used advanced monitoring equipment to carry out their tasks.

Another highlight of the visit was a briefing by Acting Chief Inspector Tsang Shing-yin about the work of the Small Boat Division (SBDIV) and a demonstration by SBDIV officers of forced-boarding tactics. A mentee said the visit had increased her understanding of police work and further developed her interest in the police career.