The Operations Wing of New Territories South (NTS) conducted a communications exercise, codenamed "WOODNEEDLE", on January 18 to test the response and communication skills of the Regional Operations Room and District Operations Rooms in major incidents.

The tabletop exercise simulated a series of large-scale public events arising from controversial issues, leading to blockage of tunnels and roads in the Region, the occupation of MTR station entrances, as well as causing chaos and jeopardising public safety. The exercise tested whether the operations rooms could disseminate information properly and timely and accurately record decisions made and resource allocation.

The exercise provided a valuable opportunity for the participating units to familiarise with the procedures of running the operations rooms, as well as strengthening communication among formations in NTS during critical incidents.