Police Tactical Unit (Hong Kong)

The Police Tactical Unit (PTU), often referred to as the "Blue Berets" due to their distinctive headgear, is a specialist unit within the Hong Kong Police Force. It is responsible for maintaining public order and security, responding to emergencies, and providing a highly mobile reserve force for deployment throughout Hong Kong.

The PTU operates both in uniform and plain clothes, and its duties encompass a wide range of activities, including crowd control, riot control, search and rescue operations, anti-crime patrols, and providing support to other police units. They are trained in a variety of tactics, including close quarters combat, the use of specialized weapons (less-lethal and lethal), and negotiation skills.

Organizationally, the PTU is divided into companies, each of which is further subdivided into platoons. These platoons are self-contained units capable of operating independently in various situations. PTU officers undergo rigorous training, focusing on physical fitness, discipline, and the application of law and police procedures.

The PTU plays a significant role in maintaining stability and responding to critical incidents within Hong Kong, serving as a vital component of the city's law enforcement capabilities. The unit is deployed based on operational needs and threat assessments across the territory. Their presence is often noticeable during major public events and demonstrations.