In April last year, the first issue of the revamped OffBeat featured an interview with crime officer “Little Tiger”, who was injured by rioters with acid bombs while he was on duty on the National Day in 2019, which led to multiple severe injuries on his body. In the last interview, he emphasised that his pain had made him even stronger. Little Tiger has endured over 600 extraordinary days of rehabilitation and he is still fighting strong today. In this issue of OffBeat, Little Tiger shared with us his journey of recovery. Below is his story in his own words:

It has been more than 600 days since I received medical treatment daily for my recovery. My rehabilitation journey has been close to two years by now. Whenever I recall that fateful day on October 1, 2019, I still tremble over what I have experienced. On that day, I was attacked with acid by vicious rioters while I was on duty in Tuen Mun. My injuries could have been worse and I would have needed more than skin grafting as treatment but I was fortunate to have survived. I feel honoured to be given the chance by the Force to share my journey of recovery here once again.

In the first week of recovery, I was given more than 20 painkillers a day but their effects would last for only an hour or two. I did not want to become dependent on painkillers, so ever since the second week, I have stopped taking all prescribed painkillers given to me by the hospital and I have challenged myself to endure the extreme pain instead.

To receive treatment, I have left behind loved ones, the Force and my home. During these two past years, I have stayed in the ward and consulted many medical experts on treatment but as there are not many cases on acid related injuries, there have been limitations in the direction for treatment. In hope for recovery, I have tried over 50 types of medicine, whether by applying ointment or taking pills, you name it, but each morning I would still wake up to bloodstained bed sheet and mattress that resemble a violent crime scene.

Rainy days and night time prove a real challenge for me, because the neuromuscular system is most active during those times and I would experience excruciating pain. When I was a kid, I would go to the wet market with my mother, and I would see how the vendor picked up a fish for slaughter and slammed it violently against the chopping board. Even though the fish suffered great pain, it would try its best to break free. Whenever I am in intense pain, I feel like the fish on the chopping board, fighting with all my strength.

A year ago, I was privileged to share my story on OffBeat, and received strong support from the Commissioner and senior officers of the Force. And now, I have already overcome many obstacles, even though I am yet to return to the Force, I have never forgotten my identity as a police officer. The word “fearless” becomes my motto.

During my journey of recovery, I feel very honoured to receive support from the country, the HKSAR Government, the Force and the citizens. Even though my right arm and back are full of scars, and I still have to face a long recovery along with unbearable pain, my beliefs have never been shaken. As a police officer, I strive to fulfil my duty to uphold law and order and protect the city. I hope I could return to the Force as soon as possible and make up for lost time.

There would be many ups and downs throughout the career of each and every police officer, but I believe the professionalism, bravery and resilience of other officers in fulfilling their job duties far exceed mine.