Hong Kong police arrest 10 for dangerous driving in first drone-assisted traffic crackdown

Hong Kong police have apprehended 10 individuals for reckless driving on the Kwun Tong Bypass, marking the first instance of drone-assisted traffic enforcement. The operation, codenamed "Fastshield," ran from August 3 to Monday and targeted dangerous driving in the Kwun Tong Bypass. Nine men, aged 25 to 51, and one woman were arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving.

Seven private cars and three motorcycles were impounded for further investigation at the Kowloon Bay Vehicle Detention and Examination Centre. Senior Inspector Pun Chun-ho of the force's Kowloon East traffic department revealed that some drivers had been observed driving at "extreme speeds, weaving in and out of traffic in a perilous manner."

To ensure the operation's safety, drones and "stealth cars" – unmarked police vehicles – were utilized for evidence collection and to facilitate law enforcement. Drones provided high-altitude observation, enhancing the police's ability to gather evidence. The police stated that the drone-assisted operation also saved manpower. The suspects have been released on bail pending further investigation, with the warning that dangerous driving is a serious offense with a maximum penalty of a HK$25,000 fine and up to three years' imprisonment.

The driving license of an offender will also be suspended for six months. Amid a surge in fatal road accidents during the first half of the year, Hong Kong police are conducting a three-week enforcement operation against distracted driving and pedestrian offenses. Sixty-three people died in 59 traffic accidents during this period, a 46.5% increase compared to the same period last year.

The police are also expanding their use of surveillance technology and automated drones, employing them to track individuals who overstayed visas or gambled illegally. The Labour Department is investigating the possibility of equipping drones with facial recognition tools to enforce a new law against smoking on construction sites.