Serpentine dissent

(A summary)

As a frontline officer, I perform many routine duties. However, I find many tasks are not directly relevant to policing. Nevertheless, under the principle of protecting civilians and their property, one will comply to perform such tasks.

In particular, dealing with 'snake found' cases. I have seen little change in procedures in the 30 years I have been in the Force. Arriving at the scene, an officer confirms the existence of the snake, contacts a snake catcher and arranges transportation of the reptile to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department. He also arranges payment for the catcher.

The time consumed and tasks performed are not in the realm of an officer's duties. I hope such cases can be dealt with by a department directly responsible for such matters.

Sergeant Leung Man-chiu
Kowloon City Division

The procedures outlined in FPM 42-02 [Snakes] only require a police response in circumstances where the public might be endangered, the preservation of life being one of our core responsibilities. For the safety of both the public and the officer, a snake catcher is employed because of his specialist knowledge and training in the handling and capture of reptiles.

The requirement to transport a captured snake to an animal management centre or Kadoorie Farm is to ensure that Police do not inadvertently assist in the trading of a protected species and/or to prevent it being subsequently consumed. In circumstances when a snake has bitten someone, the procedures outlined in FPM 42-04 should be followed - this is identical to a dog bite case.

If SGT Leung has any further questions or suggestions, he is welcome to contact me at sp-general-support@police.gov.hk.

Keith Dryden
Superintendent General Support