The C.I.D.
The work of the Criminal Investigation Department in Hong Kong covers a wider range than the C.I.D. in most other parts of the Commonwealth.
In addition to routine police work they must combat the illegal activities of Triad Societies, and they are also concerned with narcotics.
Triad societies are not legally recognised because, in spite of their lofty ideals of bro- therhood and self-protection, they are in reality secret societies dominated by criminals who extend their influence to all corners of the Colony's web of crime.
Narcotics are a major problem and, although there is a specialist section dealing with the import, manufacture and distribution of dan- gerous drugs, the ramifications are such that the C.I.D. is involved in the suppression of this trade.
During the past few years there has been a
Behind the scenes the forensic laboratory plays a key part in crime detection.
fairly sharp increase in the number of seri crimes reported, and the figure for 1966 Was 21,430 compared with 13,910 in 1963. But a high average detection of over 70% has been maintained. This compares very favourably with other police forces. The most pro- minent offences in Hong Kong are minor forms of larceny, although pick-pocketing and snatching are common occurrences in the crowded urban areas. There is very little vicious or wanton crime, and the average number of murder and manslaughter cases are less than three a month. Sexual offences have been increasing, but generally these have been the less serious form of indecent assault. Cases of rape have remained low with an average of only three reports a year.
Commercial offences, such as embezzlement and obtaining money by false pretences, account for a large proportion of serious crime, and in many instances the investigation of one case leads to the disclosure of a mul- titude of connected offences.
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