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VIP Protection Unit (Hong Kong)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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The VIP Protection Unit (Abbreviation: VIPPU; Chinese: 要員保護組), otherwise known as G4 (originally Section G, Division 4), is a protective security unit branch of the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF).
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Introduction
The G4 unit was establishment in 1974[2] in the wake of tragic events that took place in the Munich Massacre in 1972.[3] The original name had been given to the unit since it is the 4th division of the former Royal Hong Kong Police Force's Special Branch (RHKPF Special Branch).[3]
Following the disbanding of the RHKPF Special Branch in 1995, the VIP Unit was reassigned under the Security Wing of the HKPF after the handover in 1997.[3]
Known operations
In 1997, VIPPU was involved in protecting delegates attending the World Bank-IMF Meeting[4] and the Hong Kong handover ceremony.[1]
The VIPPU was involved in policing demonstrations at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Hong Kong.[5]
In August 2012, the VIPPU was deployed to protect the crew of the Shenzhou 9 when they visited Hong Kong.[6]
In January 2019, the unit protected Donald Tsang, who was the former Chief Executive after his release from prison.[7]
On May 29, 2025, the VIPPU provided protection for Wang Yi and foreign VIPs in Hong Kong to attend a ceremony of the launching of the International Organization for Mediation.[8][9]
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Organization
Summarize
Perspective
The VIPPU is currently under the HKPF's Crime and Security Department under the Security Wing.[10][2] It is under the command of a HKPF officer with the rank of Senior Superintendent.[11] Contact details for the VIPPU and the exact number of officers working in the unit are classified due to security concerns that require confidentiality.[12]
The unit primary responsibility for the personal safety of HKSAR Chief Executive and his/her core family (previously, the Governor and his family before the handover in 1997[12]), high-rank government officials, VIPs and visiting dignitaries to Hong Kong.[3][13] They are also deployed to protect Chief Executive candidates during public events.[11] For female VIPs, female VIPPU officers are deployed to protect them.[12]
The VIPPU is also trained to conduct stealth-based protection in case the VIP wants them to keep a low profile.[3] In case a VIP refuses VIPPU protection, they will assess the situation and increase police presence to ensure their safety.[11]
Training
All prospective VIPPU officers are trained to counter sudden attacks, hostage rescue, VIP protection, and unarmed combat with English/Putonghua courses.[14] They are also trained to provide Basic Trauma Life Support in case the VIP suffers wounds or injuries.[4] The unit conducts joint exercises with the PTU, SDU and the ASU.[14]
Basic training lasts for 10 weeks, followed by a probationary period for six months.[15] Candidate are required to run with 50 kgs. sandbags to simulate carrying VIPs when under fire.[3] Selection lasts for three days and two nights, which includes physical fitness, fighting and swimming exercises.[12] In the VIP protection course, candidates are required to be trained in firearms, self-defense and first aid.[12] For prospective candidates who qualify, but are deemed not to be physically fit under VIPPU standards are placed under the "Physical Fitness Enhancement Course".[12]
All serving HKPF officers are qualified to attend with Constable, NCO and Inspector ranks.[14]
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Equipment
The VIPPU uses the Glock 17 and 19, the Remington Model 870 and the Heckler & Koch MP5K-PDW.[3] They also used stun, smoke and flash grenades with batons.[3] For protection, the unit has access to bulletproof blankets.[16]
A BMW 7 Series F03 acquired by VIPPU in 2012 has a removable bulletproof windshield, armored tires and roof.[3] Sensors are built in the vehicle to determine change in air composition with the windows/vents automatically closing in case of an incident involving WMDs, including toxic and biological.[3]
References
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