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The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) announced today (August 15) that it had hoisted red and shark flags at Hung Shing Yeh Beach and the nearby Lo So Shing Beach today after a baby shark was found at Hung Shing Yeh Beach.
Around noon, a swimmer found a suspected baby shark measuring about 50 centimetres (19 inches) in length and six to seven centimetres in body diameter at the beach. The fish was later identified by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) as Scoliodon laticaudus, common name Spadenose Shark.
Upon LCSD's request, the Government Flying Service and the Marine Police had searched the water in the vicinity and found no sighting of sharks or big fish. LCSD's shark prevention net maintenance contractor had carried out sonar inspection at the two beaches and found no sign of big fish within the swimming zone. The contractor had also inspected the shark prevention net and found it in good condition.
The LCSD announced that Hung Shing Yeh Beach and Lo So Shing Beach would remain temporarily closed for safety reason.
Staff of all other LCSD beaches and water sports centres has also enhanced vigilance. Swimmers are advised to stay inside the shark prevention nets to ensure safety.
Ends/Friday, August 15, 2014
Issued at HKT 22:55
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