One objective is to develop special tactics for conducting operations to flush out armed culprits in remote and difficult terrain.

"Over the past few years we have seen occasional robberies in country parks and other remote areas. Sometimes the culprits have used pistol-like objects and we cannot rule out the possibility that real firearms will be used in the future," said Chief Inspector Simon Hannaford, Commander of the QRF. "While our tactics training is excellent for the urban environment, we very often have to work in rural areas. We felt there was a gap in training and so we have spent a lot of time researching, practising and learning new skills."

As part of the programme, QRF officers frequently take part in exercises that simulate the pursuit and capture of an armed suspect. "Searching for an armed suspect in rural areas presents all sorts of problems for the police," CIP Hannaford continued. "Some of the problems are similar to those encountered in urban areas, whereas others are unique and require a very different approach."

Senior Inspector Horace Chan Chun-kwong, who has developed the training package and played a key role in training QRF officers in new tactics, said, "We use our training sessions to familiarise officers with the basics of field craft, movement, and effective use of firearms. We then use the exercises mainly to raise officers' alertness and teach them that the terrain is a tactical problem to be reckoned with."

He emphasised that teamwork, self-discipline and a high degree of alertness were essential. "In a potentially dangerous situation, everybody counts on his or her colleagues!"

Tactics training forms part of an integrated training package for QRF officers. Every QRF officer receives training from the Civil Aid Service in navigation and the use of the Global Positioning System. Training in search and rescue operations and in working with other units and departments, such as the Government Flying Service, will boost their basic skills in navigation, field craft and tactics.

"QRF often operates in a very demanding environment," said CIP Hannaford. "A great deal is expected from our officers, whatever their rank, and so we intend to give them the best training available to ensure safety and success."

He pointed out that his officers found working in the QRF very rewarding. "Everybody is very enthusiastic about the training. It is tough going wearing a BRV and ballistic helmet while climbing hills and struggling through dense undergrowth, but nobody is complaining. That is part of the QRF's spirit; we are a 'can-do' unit."

QRF officers giving a debriefing following an exercise