************************************************************
Over 200 former and serving members of the Small Boat Unit as well as their families today (November 7) attended an open day at Small Boat Division (SBDIV) Headquarters on Stonecutters Island to celebrate its 30th Anniversary.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Management), Mr Tsang Wai-hung, and Regional Commander of Marine, Ms Chang Mo-see, were also present to share the joy with the unit members.
The Small Boat Unit (the present Small Boat Division) was formed in 1979 to help stem the influx of illegal immigrants. In 1990s it worked closely with the Anti Smuggling Task Force to tackle the Daai Feis, high-powered vessels used by smuggling syndicates. Today, the Small Boat Division is widely respected by local and overseas law enforcement agencies on account of its specialized skills, tactics and resources to perform its core role of high-speed pursuit and interception.
Speaking at a ceremony, Mr Tsang pointed out that SBDIV had achieved significant results in enforcement over the years which had contributed positively to the security and law and order situation of Hong Kong waters.
He praised the SBDIV officers for their professionalism, perseverance and courage and encouraged them to keep up their efforts and carry out their duties in a safe and effective manner.
Mr Tsang, proud of the achievements of the division, added that SBDIV would continue the development of its craft, training, tactics and equipment to meet the challenges ahead.
SBDIV, with a strength of over 130, currently operates a fleet of 8 Fast Pursuit Craft (FPC) and 5 High Speed Interceptors (HSI), in support of other units of Marine Region, to primarily perform the highly specialized and potentially hazardous task of high-speed pursuit and interception.
From January 2006 to October 2009, SBDIV seized some HK$ 320 million worth of contraband along with 82 vessels of assorted sizes and 27 assorted vehicles; and between March 2006 and October 2009, it arrested a total of 1045 illegal immigrants.
Police Report No. 4
Ends/Saturday, November 7, 2009
Issued at HKT 15:41
NNNN
