Security drive as start date draws near

Police said yesterday they would expand the anti-terrorist Airport Security Unit and plan exercises to prepare for the opening of the Chek Lap Kok in April.

They said crime trends at Kai Tak had been analysed in planning for security at the new site.

The 51-member elite Airport Security Unit at Kai Tak has recruited 35 extra members.

They will undergo training to become familiar with Chek Lap Kok.

The number of detectives to be stationed at the new airport will be 37, compared to 17 at Kai Tak. The Crime Prevention Bureau will also have a larger office at Chek Lap Kok.

Chek Lap Kok police station, which now has about 80 officers, will be at full strength, with 343 officers, about three weeks before the airport opens.