Shark sighting: Two baby sharks measuring about 50cm long and up to 8cm in diameter were found trapped alive on the western side of Shek O Beach.

The Leisure & Cultural Services Department has closed Shek O Beach temporarily as two baby sharks were found trapped alive on the beach's western side on May 28 evening.

Government Flying Service and Marine Police had searched the water in the vicinity yesterday and had not spotted any sharks or big fish. The shark-prevention net maintenance contractor had carried out sonar inspection and found no sign of big fish within the swimming zone. The contractor had also inspected the net and found it in good condition.

The baby sharks belong to the non-aggressive white-spotted bamboo shark species Hemiscyllium plagiosum commonly found in Hong Kong waters. The species pose no danger to people.

Shark flags at other nine beaches in Southern District - Deep Water Bay, Repulse Bay, Middle Bay, South Bay, Chung Hom Kok, St Stephen's, Big Wave Bay, Stanley Main and Turtle Cove Beaches - have been hoisted to advise swimmers of the shark sighting in the vicinity.

The Stanley Main and St Stephen's Beaches Water Sports Centres will be closed tomorrow until further notice.

For tips to avoid shark attacks, click here.