The head of police in Hong Kong has recently shared that there’s been a significant decrease in burglary incidents in the region, thanks to strategic air and ground operations conducted throughout the summer months. Figures from the first three quarters of the year indicate a 48% drop in related losses when compared to the same period last year.

Police Commissioner Raymond Siu Chak-yee also took the opportunity to underline the importance of engaging with the younger generation, particularly those who participated in the 2019 protests against a proposed extradition bill that has since been withdrawn. Siu warned against the danger of marginalising young people, stating that it would only benefit those politicians who incite teenagers.

Public anxiety about burglaries was heightened in the initial quarter of the year due to a 50% rise in reported incidents, accompanied by a 30% increase in losses. The theft from former police chief Andy Tsang Wai-hung’s residence also brought the issue under the public eye.

The burglary at Tsang’s residence in Tai Po resulted in the loss of over HK$400,000 (US$51,460) in cash and valuables. Two men, aged 31 and 36, carrying Hong Kong and Macau Travel Permits, were subsequently apprehended on charges including burglary, criminal damage, and assault on an officer.

In a radio interview, Siu explained that a trend of burglaries predominantly targeting residential areas, especially village homes, had been identified during investigations. As a countermeasure, the police have been implementing comprehensive burglary prevention strategies over the past half year, including stepping up patrols.

In addition to this, the force has also initiated community awareness drives and heightened surveillance in the affluent Mid-Levels and Southern district neighbourhoods through police drone patrols and helicopter services provided by the Government Flying Service.