Hong Kong, May 26, 2026 – Rescue teams in Hong Kong’s Sai Kung district concluded an overnight search operation early Tuesday morning after locating one of three elderly men who had gone missing during a hiking trip the previous day. Authorities continue to search for the remaining two hikers, whose whereabouts remain unknown.
The incident unfolded on May 25, when a group of hikers departed from Pak Tam Au (白腊村) in Sai Kung, intending to reach the eastern dam of the Wo Yi Hop Reservoir (萬宜水庫東壩). By afternoon, three men—one in his late 70s—were reported missing after failing to meet up with the rest of the group near Flower Hill (花山). The last confirmed sighting placed them in the Flower Hill area, prompting an immediate rescue effort.
Rescue operations, involving personnel from the Fire Services Department, Civil Aid Services, and other emergency responders, were launched around 10:00 PM on May 25. Teams mobilized from Pak Tam Chau (北潭涌), splitting into multiple search parties to cover different routes through the mountainous terrain. The operation continued through the night, with teams working under challenging conditions, including limited visibility and rugged terrain.
By dawn on May 26, rescuers located a 76-year-old man, identified as Mr. Chan, near Pak Tam Au. Mr. Chan was uninjured but was questioned about the circumstances of the disappearance to help locate the other two missing hikers. Authorities confirmed that the remaining two men—one also in his 70s—are still unaccounted for, and search efforts are ongoing.
Background: A Common Hazard for Hong Kong Hikers
Hiking accidents in Hong Kong’s mountainous regions are not uncommon, particularly during public holidays when trails become crowded. The Sai Kung area, known for its scenic routes and reservoirs, attracts thousands of hikers annually. However, the terrain’s complexity—including steep climbs, dense vegetation, and sudden weather changes—poses risks, especially for older hikers or those unfamiliar with the area.
In recent years, similar incidents have occurred in Hong Kong’s hiking trails, including cases where hikers became disoriented or injured. For example, in 2025, a 79-year-old man was rescued after two days missing near Tai Tam Reservoir, while another incident in 2024 saw a group of hikers stranded overnight due to sudden rain and poor visibility. These cases highlight the importance of proper preparation, including carrying navigation tools, informing others of hiking plans, and checking weather forecasts.
Local authorities have repeatedly urged hikers to exercise caution, particularly during peak seasons. The Fire Services Department and Civil Aid Services maintain 24/7 search-and-rescue capabilities but emphasize that prevention—such as hiking with a buddy system and avoiding remote trails alone—is the best way to mitigate risks.
Rescue Operations: Coordination and Challenges
Rescue teams deployed from Pak Tam Chau, a key hub for emergency responses in the Sai Kung area. Personnel were equipped with headlamps, communication devices, and first-aid supplies, allowing them to navigate the dark terrain. The operation involved ground searches as well as coordination with helicopter support, though weather conditions may have limited aerial visibility.
According to reports from Hong Kong’s HK01, the rescue effort involved multiple agencies, including the Hong Kong Police Force, which took the initial report of the missing hikers. The Civil Aid Services, a volunteer-based organization, also played a critical role in the ground searches.
One of the challenges in such operations is the vast and uneven terrain of Sai Kung’s trails. The area is dotted with reservoirs, valleys, and dense forests, making it difficult to pinpoint exact locations without additional information from survivors or witnesses. Authorities have urged anyone with details about the missing hikers—including possible last-known locations or descriptions of their clothing—to come forward.
Who Are the Missing Hikers?
While the identity of the two remaining missing men has not been publicly confirmed, reports indicate they are both in their 70s. The group had originally planned a relatively moderate hike from Pak Tam Au to the eastern dam, a route that typically takes 4–6 hours for experienced hikers. However, the disappearance suggests they may have taken a different path or encountered unexpected obstacles.
Mr. Chan, the survivor, was reportedly uninjured but disoriented when found. His account of the incident is being reviewed by authorities to determine whether the other two hikers may have strayed from the group or faced an accident. Rescue teams are now focusing on high-risk areas, including steep drops, riverbeds, and dense vegetation where hikers might have become trapped.
What Happens Next?
As of Tuesday morning, search operations remain active, with teams continuing to comb the Flower Hill and surrounding areas. Authorities have not specified a timeline for concluding the search but have indicated that resources will be allocated as needed. The public is advised to avoid the area to prevent interference with rescue efforts.
For those planning hiking trips in Hong Kong, the Fire Services Department recommends:
- Registering hiking plans with friends or family, including intended routes and estimated return times.
- Carrying a fully charged mobile phone, a whistle, and a basic first-aid kit.
- Avoiding remote trails alone, especially for inexperienced hikers.
- Checking weather forecasts and trail conditions before departing.
Updates on the search will be provided by the Hong Kong Police Force and the Fire Services Department. Residents can also monitor local news outlets for further developments.
Key Takeaways
- One survivor found: A 76-year-old man was located unharmed early Tuesday morning near Pak Tam Au.
- Two still missing: The remaining two hikers, both in their 70s, are unaccounted for, and searches continue.
- Overnight rescue effort: Teams from multiple agencies worked through the night under challenging conditions.
- Safety warnings: Authorities reiterate the importance of preparation and caution for hikers in Hong Kong’s mountainous regions.
- Public assistance requested: Anyone with information about the missing hikers is urged to contact authorities immediately.
This story will be updated as new information becomes available. For official updates, follow the Hong Kong Police Force and Fire Services Department.
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