298 Public Order
watching out for deception. In collaboration with the Task Force on Youth Drug Abuse, the committee included in its publicity campaign an additional theme on combating youth drug abuse.
District Fight Crime Committees (DFCCs) continued to play an important role in the battle against crime by monitoring the situation at district level and reflecting community concerns about law and order issues. They helped foster community awareness of crime prevention
of crime prevention and encouraged community participation in combating crime through publicity programmes carried out in the districts.
To foster closer co-operation, the Fight Crime Committee and DFCCs exchanged feedback regularly on various issues discussed at their respective meetings. FCC members also took turns to attend DFCC meetings and functions. In December, the committee organised a Fight Crime Conference for all DFCC members to exchange views on topical crime issues and ways to combat crime.
Police Force
The Hong Kong Police Force's strong commitment to maintaining law and order ensured Hong Kong continued to be one of the safest cities in the world for residents and visitors alike.
During the year, the Police Force played a key role in providing a safe and secure environment for a number of major events in Hong Kong, including the Beijing 2008 Olympic Torch Relay and the 2008 Olympic and Paralympic Equestrian Events.
The Police Force also continued to partner with overseas law enforcement agencies to tackle transnational crime threats. In March, the Police Force, as a sub- bureau of the INTERPOL China National Central Bureau, co-hosted the 20th INTERPOL Asian Regional Conference with the INTERPOL China National Central Bureau.
At year-end, the Police Force had an establishment of about 27 800 police officers supported by more than 4 700 civilian staff and reinforced by some 3 800 volunteers serving in the Hong Kong Auxiliary Police Force. In 2008, 88 inspectors and 780 constables were appointed.
Hong Kong Auxiliary Police Force
The Hong Kong Auxiliary Police Force helps the regular force in crowd management and foot patrols. In 2008, it also provided assistance during the 2008 Olympic and Paralympic Equestrian Events and the Legislative Council election.
Crime
Reported crimes in 2008 totalled 78 469, a decrease of 2.9 per cent compared with 80 796 in 2007. The crime rate stood at 1 125 cases per 100 000 population, a drop of 3.6 per cent compared with 1 167 in 2007. The decrease in crimes was mainly due to a decline in thefts, criminal damage as well as wounding and serious. assaults.