Safe And Secure Tech Protect Hong Kong Tourists

Posted onAuthorChris Owen

  • Expansion to tourist hotspots and islands like The Peak and Lamma Island
  • Integration of loudspeakers and flashing lights for public communication
  • Success of the first phase in assisting with 13 criminal arrests
  • Implementation of privacy guidelines and signage to notify the public

The Hong Kong Police Force is expanding its “Operational Deployment of Drones” pilot scheme into a second phase beginning this Friday. This expansion follows a successful initial phase that launched in May 2025, which focused on the Heung Yuen Wai border area and Kowloon West. During that first phase, the technology assisted in 13 arrests related to offenses such as drug possession and theft. The drones provided law enforcement with greater flexibility in patrolling border zones and accessing high-risk areas like rooftops and narrow alleys.

flying uav with red lamps in grunge yard
Photo by Kelly on Pexels.com

The second phase will introduce drone patrols to several popular tourist destinations and residential islands, specifically The Peak, Lamma Island, and Cheung Chau. Additionally, the scope of the program will increase in urban districts including Central, Sau Mau Ping, Yuen Long, and Tsuen Wan. In areas like Sau Mau Ping, the technology will be utilized to monitor construction sites, which are frequent targets for criminal activity.

These drones are equipped with police decals, red and blue flashing lights, and loudspeakers. The speakers allow officers to broadcast pre-recorded advisory messages or issue real-time instructions to the public. To manage this growing fleet, the force currently has approximately 800 qualified drone operators, with plans to train more personnel as needed.

Regarding privacy, the police stated that operations focus on real-time monitoring of public spaces rather than private building interiors. Guidelines have been established to regulate flight missions and data handling. Warning signs are also placed near operation sites to notify citizens of the aerial surveillance. The force has noted that similar automated drone systems are utilized by law enforcement agencies in various countries, including the United States, China, Australia, and Canada.