Explosive Ordnance Disposal Bureau

Established in 1972, the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Bureau, often called EOD, is a vital part of Hong Kong’s police force. The Bureau’s motto, “Integrity, Professionalism, Loyalty,” reflects its crucial role. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Bureau handles a wide range of dangerous tasks. They deal with explosive disposal, both on land and underwater. This includes bombs, incendiaries, explosives, booby traps, grenades, improvised explosive devices, and even unexploded shells. They also address nuclear, biological, and chemical threats. They inspect storage facilities and equipment related to explosives. The EOD also manages bomb disposal training and disrupts bomb threats. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Bureau’s history is tied to the 1967 riots. These riots highlighted the need for a specialized unit within the police force to handle explosives. Before the Bureau’s formation, the police relied on British military bomb disposal experts. This proved inefficient and slow. The early members of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Bureau were primarily British military personnel. By the 1980s, locally trained Hong Kong police officers took over. This marked a significant step towards self-sufficiency. In 1986, the Bureau introduced its first bomb disposal robot, enhancing its capabilities. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Bureau has faced many challenges. In 1995, a freighter accidentally dredged up a massive American-made aerial bomb. The bomb weighed 500 pounds and required a tense half-hour operation to disarm. More recently, in 2014, construction workers unearthed a 1,000-pound American aerial bomb in Happy Valley. This was the second-largest bomb ever discovered in Hong Kong. It took the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Bureau 18 hours to safely neutralize the threat. These incidents highlight the ongoing risks and the Bureau’s expertise. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Bureau has a rigorous selection and training process. Candidates are drawn from the police force and undergo rigorous testing. This includes psychological evaluations, mechanical aptitude tests, and challenging physical trials. Even after selection, the training is intense. It involves handling explosives in stressful environments and mastering complex procedures. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Bureau is more than just a response unit. It plays a proactive role in ensuring public safety. The Bureau trains its personnel in advanced techniques. Some members even receive diver training to handle underwater explosives. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Bureau stands as a symbol of Hong Kong’s resilience. It is a testament to the dedication of the men and women who risk their lives to protect the city.