Hong Kong, August 14:

Hong Kong dispatched explosive experts twice today to investigate suspected bombs later confirmed to be pranks, a police official said.

The pranks today, which came when Hong Kong is hosting the equestrian event of the Beijing Olympics, mark the second and third similar incidents in a week. Police dispatched officers to investigate a flare found inside the subway station of a popular shopping district on Friday.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Bill Suen said the two objects reported today were a mobile phone wrapped with wires and a paper bag with the message “bomb, stay away” on it. He called the pranks “very irresponsible”.