ENG-2009 — Page 374

302 Public Order

publicity on enhancing awareness of the harmful effects of drug abuse and the importance of staying away from drugs.

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 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 October, the committee hosted a Fight Crime Reception for all DFCC members. This occasion provided an opportunity for 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 2009 East Asian Games (EAG).

At year-end, the Police Force had an establishment of about 27 900 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. 138 inspectors and 1 044 constables were appointed in 2009.

Hong Kong Auxiliary Police Force

The Hong Kong Auxiliary Police Force which celebrated the 50th Anniversary of its establishment during the year, continued to assist the regular force in crowd management and maintaining law and order. They also provided assistance during the EAG.

Crime

Reported crimes in 2009 totalled 77 630, a decrease of 1.1 per cent compared with 78 469 in 2008. The crime rate stood at 1 108 cases per 100 000 population, a drop of 1.5 per cent compared with 1 125 in 2008. The decrease was mainly due to a decline in thefts, burglary and robbery.

During the year, the number of violent crimes decreased to 14 193, a drop of 1.6 per cent compared with 14 429 in 2008. Criminal intimidation and wounding and serious assaults accounted for 70.6 per cent of total violent crimes this year. There was a notable increase in serious violent crimes such as rape, homicide, criminal intimidation and blackmail.