Safety check: Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police Henrique Koo says Police have comprehensive security plans for the Olympic Equestrian Events.

A special task force and crime team have been formed to ensure the Olympic Equestrian venues' safety, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police Henrique Koo says, adding Police will deploy 2,000 to 4,000 officers each day during the games.

Speaking at a press conference this afternoon, Mr Koo said task force members received professional training in venue security and crowd management. The crime team will conduct patrols at the venues and handle all reports related to the events.

Leave restrictions will be imposed for Police officers from August 1 to 24 and training activities unrelated to the events will be suspended. Auxiliary Police officers will be sent to ensure there is sufficient manpower to handle any unexpected incidents.

Access restirction

Mr Koo said a section of Shing Mun River near the Sha Tin venue has become a limited-access area while flights will be forbidden to fly over the two venues and the Olympic village.

During the games, Police teams will conduct searches in each venue, and all people entering the venues and their belongings must be checked. There will also be special vehicle-checking arrangements.

Reiterating Police have comprehensive security plans and anti-terrorists measures in place, Mr Koo said regular ongoing exercises will enhance officers' abilities.

Noting Hong Kong's security threat is moderate, Mr Koo said there is no evidence suggesting that Hong Kong will be a terrorist target during the equestrian events.

Police will continue to maintain close liaison with the Mainland and overseas law-enforcement agencies, he said.

Demonstration areas

On the arrangements for demonstrators, Mr Koo said Police initially plan to set up designated demonstration areas near the venues. A final decision will be made when Police have a clearer picture of the situation and the number of demonstrators.