The Force has been striving to promote the messages of “Protect Animals, Respect Lives” through different channels. To enlist wider support to fight against all acts of cruelty to animals, the Animal Watchers Programme (AWP) has been implemented to pool together the support and participation of animal lovers at the community level.

The launching cum award presentation ceremony of AWP was held at the Police Headquarters on February 28. Commissioner Tang Ping-keung appointed 16 Central Advisory Board (CAB) members whilst the Chairperson of the CAB, Assistant Commissioner Kwan Chui-ching, appointed 54 AWP Captains. Two police dogs, Sunny and Zander, were appointed as the spokesdogs of the programme. Besides, 145 AWP Watchers were also appointed to participate in the upcoming AWP educational and promotional activities in the community.

In recognition of the contribution of respective organisation, unit and member of the public to animal protection last year, Deputy Commissioner (Operations) Siu Chak-yee presented the AWP Guardian Awards to Sai Kung Cattle’s Angel for its commitment to the enhancement of welfare of large animals, a member of the public, Ms Leung Wing-han, for her intelligence provided, and officers of Marine Region and the Customs and Excise Department for the detection of a pet smuggling syndicate.

During the ceremony, the Commissioner announced the official naming of the crime investigation teams in police districts designated for investigation of animal cruelty cases as “Animal Crime Police Teams”. The new name serves to enhance the image of dedicated professionalism and reflect the positioning of the designated teams. Police will continue to maintain close liaison with relevant stakeholders and develop bonds with animal lovers to protect animals.

Commissioner Tang Ping-keung (ninth left), Deputy Commissioner (Operations) Siu Chak-yee (eighth right), Acting Director of Operations Chan Yee-lai (eighth left), Chairperson of the CAB cum Assistant Commissioner Kwan Chui-ching (seventh left), Vice-chairperson cum Chief Superintendent Yau Siu-kei (fourth right) and CAB members officiate at the launching ceremony.

Commissioner Tang Ping-keung delivers a welcome speech at the ceremony.

A dog handler introduces the spokesdogs of the programme, Sunny and Zander.

A handler performs with a police dog at the ceremony.

AWP Captains and police officers will join hands to promote the message of animal protection in the community.

Please press here to visit the website of Animal Watchers Programme.