Hong Kong records drop in burglary cases following targeted air, ground police operations
Police Commissioner Raymond Siu says burglary-related losses down 48 per cent in first nine months of year
Commissioner of Police Raymond Siu Chak-yee on Saturday also reiterated the need to engage youngsters who had taken part in the 2019 protests against a now-shelved extradition bill, warning that “pushing our young people into a corner” would only please those who had incited them.
Concerns over burglaries intensified in the first quarter of the year, after data showed a 50 per cent increase in reports of such cases and a 30 per cent rise in the value of losses compared with the same period in 2023. A high-profile break-in at the home of former police chief Andy Tsang Wai-hung further drew attention to the issue.
Tsang’s home in Tai Po was burgled last Sunday, with thieves allegedly taking more than HK$100,000 (US$12,869) in cash and valuables. Two men, aged 31 and 36, holding Hong Kong and Macau travel permits, were arrested on charges related to burglary, criminal damage and assaulting an officer.
Siu told a radio interview on Saturday that investigations revealed a pattern of burglaries targeting mostly residential areas, particularly village houses. In response, police have implemented extensive anti-burglary measures over the past six months, including increased patrols.
The force also launched community awareness campaigns, as well as high-altitude patrols by police drones and government helicopters in upscale neighbourhoods in the Mid-Levels and Southern district.
“Very often we may find traces of possible illegal immigrants in rural and mountainous areas, for instance, they may have left behind some sundries and food leftovers. We can collect intelligence and prepare for an ambush,” he said. “Helicopters also act as a deterrent. We find this is obviously very helpful.”