Cases involving animals have been a public concern. Since 2011, the Force has implemented the Animal Watch Scheme to tackle cruelty to animal cases by a four-pronged approach of education, publicity, intelligence gathering and investigation. Officers of Lantau District (LTDIST) have been following these principles while handling cases involving animals.

On May 4, a photo showing a parrot being placed inside a microwave oven was posted on social media, with the caption “Extra dish - roast pigeon”. The photo had gone viral and arisen great public concern. LTDIST crime officers promptly approached the parrot owner the next day and conducted investigation with staff members of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The parrot was later confirmed safe and not cruelly treated. Thus the owner was warned and the message of animal protection was once again reiterated to the public.

Also in May, officers of Lantau South Division worked with local villagers in a “Snake Found Case”. The officers took the opportunity to distribute leaflets to villagers to raise their awareness while encountering wild animals, and to promote animal protection information.

An officer of LTDIST disseminates information on animal protection to a member of the public.