The Police Negotiation Cadre (PNC), established in 1975, celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. Yim Ming, one of the first batch frontline cadre members and now an instructor at the Police College, has witnessed nearly a quarter-century of the Cadre’s development. He recalls that, in the early years, only officers at the rank of Station Sergeant or above could join the Cadre. It was not until 2001 then the opportunity was extended to Constables and Sergeants for the first time. Yim seized the chance and, together with five colleagues, were selected from numerous applicants. He notes, “The experience of resolving everyday disputes as a police constable aligns with the core of negotiation. With intensive training, constables can also fulfil this mission.”

Recruitment for the Cadre is highly competitive, which is well known for the stringent selection process including impromptu speeches to test quick thinking, scenario simulations to assess on-the-spot reactions, and interviews to dig into one’s characteristics. Out of over a hundred applicants, only around a dozen are selected very often. The aim is to identify elites with exceptional composure and deep empathy. After rounds of selection, new members immediately undergo a six-month probation period, and be mentored and imparted the essence by experienced members through practical exercises. Yim tells frankly, “It takes an average of five years of practical experience to become a recognised and competent negotiator, and at least ten years to become an independent expert at negotiation.”

The Force sets very high standards for Cadre members just because they bear the dual responsibilities for resolving conflicts through listening and saving lives through dialogues. Over 90 per cent of cases handled involve attempted suicide, with the remainder related to hostage incidents arising from disputes. One of the most unforgettable missions that Yim handled involved a man who was distressed by a relationship and hurt himself with an 11-inch-long kitchen knife. “It happened that I was in the vicinity. I rushed to the scene immediately and just found blood gushing out of the victim’s palm, with the blade pointed at a vital area. As my partner had not yet arrived, I initiated the first step of negotiation—Active Listening. Fortunately, the victim was willing to talk which greatly facilitated the negotiation process. As a result, I persuaded him with success to put down the knife after about 20 minutes and be sent to hospital for treatment.”

In this incident, an Emergency Unit officer used a Body Worn Video Camera to record the process at close range, and the relevant footage has become a valuable internal training material for the Cadre. This incident also made Yim realise deeply, “With active listening, every frontline officer can become a negotiator. ‘All people share the same feelings, and the same principles are understood by all hearts.’ Respect and empathy are the universal keys to opening hearts.”

Cadre members must open their hearts, gain trust through sincerity, and guide victims towards hope. However, not every operation ends as hoped. Yim acknowledges that facing less-than-ideal outcomes is an inevitable experience for every negotiator. The Cadre and the Psychological Services Group will provide comprehensive support. The Cadre’s motto, “Who Cares Wins” encourages members to do their utmost and have no regrets.

The success rate of PNC is over 97 per cent, ranked among the best globally, which highlighted their professionalism, core values, and outstanding contributions. Yim reveals that the key to success lies in the virtually seamless team collaboration. “In each operation, the officer-in-charge masterminds and formulates the strategy, the major negotiation member focuses on communicating with the victim, while the partner is responsible for providing all round support and liaison. If the negotiator is in danger or emotionally affected, teammates will immediately intervene and remind, demonstrating the team spirit at its best.”

For half a century, the Cadre has made a heroic effort to reverse desperate situations on the edge of life and death. Yim hopes more colleagues will join and carry on this benevolence-based mission of safeguarding lives. He encourages newcomers, “Our work is to light a lamp for those in despair, offer them a choice, and plant hope. Only with humility and strict adherence to professionalism can we go longer and further on this path of safeguarding lives.”

Phoenix TV Chinese channel’s documentary series "My Hong Kong Story" features an episode on the PNC. Scan the QR code to learn more.