22nd July 2019 – (Hong Kong) A video uploaded by Hong Kong Police in December 2018 has suddenly gone viral in the wake of the bloodbath in Yuen Long yesterday. The video shows how the Railway Response Team tackle terrorists given the escalation of terrorist attacks against railway systems world-wide.
Netizens mocked police for failing to prevent civilians from being injured by mobs in white armed with wooden sticks instead of guns. Many wondered what happened to the RRT which was supposed to respond to the incident rapidly which resulted in many injuries yesterday. A pregnant woman and a TVB reporter were also assaulted by the mobs in white.
The Hong Kong Police Force set up the Railway Response Team (RRT) in December 2018 , in the wake of an increase in terrorist attacks on railway systems across the world. The RRT came into operation on December 23 to strengthen the Force’s counter-terrorism preparedness and make immediate intervention in terrorist attacks and other major incidents on the railway system.
Under the establishment of Railway District (RAILDIST), the RRT comprises 34 officers and comes under the supervision of Chief Inspector (Operations) of RAILDIST. Stationed at the Kowloon East Operational Base, the RRT is responsible for patrolling in RAILDIST and maintaining a high-profile police presence at high-risk and major interchange stations.
To select high-calibre officers for the RRT, a selection exercise was held jointly with the Special Duties Unit at Police Tactical Unit Headquarters on September 15. Candidates from different Formations were tested in physical fitness, leadership, self-reliance and perseverance. The selected officers attended a six-week basic training course and a two-week Railway Familiarisation Programme.
RRT members are familiar with the unique work environment of the rail network and are equipped with sophisticated equipment. They possess the expertise and skills to carry out counter-terrorism work professionally and effectively, and to enhance the inter-operability of police units, emergency service organisations and MTR Corporation. The RRT works closely with other police units to maintain public safety in RAILDIST.
