Shark sighting: Two baby sharks measuring about 50cm long and up to 8cm in diameter were found trapped alive on the western side of Shek O Beach.

The Leisure & Cultural Services Department has re-opened Shek O Beach as searches have confirmed there are no sharks in the area.

The beach was closed temporarily yesterday evening as two baby sharks were found trapped alive on the beach's western side.

The baby sharks belong to the non-aggressive white-spotted bamboo shark species Hemiscyllium plagiosum commonly found in Hong Kong waters. The species pose no danger to people.

Searches were conducted last night and today in Southern District's 10 beaches - Shek O, Deep Water Bay, Repulse Bay, Middle Bay, South Bay, Chung Hom Kok, St Stephen's, Big Wave Bay, Stanley Main and Turtle Cove - and no sharks were sighted.

Sonar checks also found no shark or suspected big fish inside the swimming zones enclosed by the shark-prevention nets at the beaches. The shark-prevention nets were confirmed to be in good condition.

The red flag at Shek O Beach has been lowered. The shark flags at the beach and nine other beaches are still being hoisted to remind swimmers to stay inside the shark-prevention nets.

Patrols inside the swimming zones will be bolstered while searches in the nearby waters will be conducted in the next few days. Swimmers are advised to stay inside the shark-prevention nets to ensure safety.

The Stanley Main and St Stephen's Beaches Water Sports Centres are still closed until further notice.

For tips to avoid shark attacks, click here.