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Formula E
Hong KongLaw and Crime

Three arrested for flying drones over Hong Kong Formula E event

Police say the act seriously endangered public safety; others call for related regulations to be amended

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The drones were spotted flying over the Formula E race track. Photo: K. Y. Cheng
Ernest Kao

Three men were arrested at the Formula E event on Sunday for allegedly operating drones over the race track area in a move considered to be “seriously endangering public safety”, police said on Monday.

Police confirmed the trio were arrested on Lung Wo Road after three drones were spotted flying over the racecourse at about 4.30pm as the main event – the Hong Kong ePrix – kicked off on the streets of Central.

“The three [drones] were found flying over the race event in Central, seriously endangering public safety,” a police spokesman confirmed. “Police arrested three males aged 28 to 42, suspected of breaching the 1995 Air Navigation (Hong Kong) Order.”

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The three were released on bail and must report back to police next month. The case has been handed to Central police district officers for investigation.

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“Police urge residents not to engage in reckless acts that would affect public safety in crowded places,” the force said. The suspects are understood to have breached article 48 of the order.

While aircraft weighing less than 7kg – classified as small aircraft – do not require certification, article 48 stipulates that “a person shall not recklessly or negligently cause or permit an aircraft to endanger any person or property”.

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