Keep the need for speed off Hong Kong’s streets
- Ahead of two legitimate motor racing events in the region, Hong Kong police impounded 16 cars and arrested at least 20 people for illegal street racing. More work is needed to discourage drivers who risk the lives of others while chasing thrills
Another red flag for illegal street racing was raised last week by Hong Kong police who impounded 16 cars and arrested at least 20 people after they jumped the gun on legitimate competitions that began in the region on Saturday.
Authorities are to be commended for targeting behaviour that has for years taken a lethal toll on the city’s roads, but the scale of the activity indicates more work is needed to discourage drivers who risk the lives of others while chasing thrills.
Those detained during citywide raids on Tuesday were apparently not racing pros. Police said a learner driver, a merchant, a technician and a chef were among the drivers or owners of the Porsche, Audi, Lexus and other vehicles impounded.
Chief Inspector So Chi-wai of the New Territories North traffic unit said officers had spent two months gathering evidence in an operation code-named “Sprinthorse”.
Laser speed-detection guns and video cameras were used to track activity at notorious illegal racing black spots such as Bride’s Pool Road and Route Twisk, Tuen Mun Road and San Tin Highway.
Hong Kong police arrest 20, seize 16 vehicles in illegal street racing crackdown
He said cars were clocked going more than double the speed limit as drivers “completely disregarded the safety of other road users”. Some reportedly crossed double white lines, chased other cars and travelled against oncoming traffic.
The New Territories North crime unit set up the task force in early 2022 after six horrific crashes on Bride’s Pool Road in Tai Po claimed seven lives in two years.
The area is still notorious for illegal racing with 21 complaints about the activity logged in the first 10 months of the year. The number was an improvement over the 46 cases logged in all of 2022.
The contests stubbornly continue, hinting at a need for penalties stiffer than the current year in jail or HK$10,000 (US$1,280) fine.
The latest crackdown happened days before this weekend’s FIA World Rallycross Championship season finale in Hong Kong and next Sunday’s 70th Macau Grand Prix.
Amateurs should channel their need for speed into supporting such events or by backing proposals for a proper motor racing circuit. Denying others safe access to public roads is a non-starter.
