Between January and March this year, a total of 71 tractors were reported stolen in the NTN Region. This represented an increase of more than 100 per cent when compared with the thefts of 35 tractors during the same period last year.

The Deputy District Commander of Border, Mr Lau Fu-sang, said at a press briefing on June 17 that the Force was very concerned with the increase in the number of tractor thefts in the region and was taking all necessary steps to fight the crime.

"A special task group, comprising members from the Regional Crime Unit (RCU) and Regional Intelligence Unit of the NTN Region, has been set up to investigate cross-boundary container truck drivers suspected of having assisted in delivering stolen tractors to the Mainland," Mr Lau said.

"Exchange of intelligence among ourselves, our Mainland counterparts and the Customs and Excise Department has also been enhanced.

"We will also continue discussions with representatives of the transport industry on tactics to prevent further thefts of tractors," he added.

On May 2, officers held a seminar with representatives of the transport industry to enlist their support and cooperation in the fight against the crime.

On the other hand, crime officers and Police Tactical Unit of the NTN Region, together with officers in the Border District have been mounting surprise checks on container trucks at various boundary control points.

During a surprise check mounted on May 22, officers from the task force caught a cross-boundary container truck driver at Lok Ma Chau taking a stolen tractor to the Mainland.

"We are confident that we can effectively deal with the crime and also raise the awareness of transport industry on the importance of tractor-theft prevention," Mr Lau added.

Officers investigate tractor thefts at a cross-boundary check-point