A long motorcade comprising some 20 police vehicles – with at least six from the elite VIP Protection Unit – was seen crossing the Western Harbour Tunnel and headed towards Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai on Tuesday morning, simulating the arrival of the Indonesian leader on Sunday afternoon.

Leading the motorcade was a rarely-seen vehicle from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, capable of jamming nearby phone and network signals. The tunnel was closed for six minutes during the exercise.

“The threat level to Widodo himself is high as Indonesia has the largest Muslim population in the world and is prone to terrorist attacks,” the police source said. “Recent and deadly terrorist attacks remind us to stay alert. A huge security presence during his stay is crucial.”

The source stressed that the city’s terrorism threat level itself remained “moderate”.

During the drill, a water assault team from the elite Special Duties Unit, also known as the Flying Tigers, patrolled Victoria Harbour while a helicopter flew overhead.

It is understood Widodo will spend a night at the Conrad Hotel in Admiralty. Before leaving Hong Kong on Monday, he will meet local officials and attend business seminars jointly organised by the Indonesian consulate and the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce.

The police source said Widodo would be escorted around town by top officers from the VIP protection Unit.

“Elite members of the Counter Terrorism Response Unit will also make a rare showing and carry heavy weapons, including machine gun MP5s and assault rifle SIG 516s, to patrol the area wherever the president goes,” the source added. Snipers from the Special Duties Unit will be on standby.

The source added that similar security arrangements would be made for other such visits.