Entitled "Be a Smart Traveller", the leaflet draws visitors' attention to messages on protection of personal property, prevention of deception and tips for shopping. The messages are also illustrated with cartoons.

A Mainland couple on the Individual Visit Scheme, on receiving the leaflet at the Golden Bauhinia Square, said they were deeply impressed with the services provided by the Force.

"The Hong Kong policemen are polite and thoughtful. The leaflet is very useful in helping us to protect our property and to avoid being cheated while shopping," they added.

The leaflet also lists the important hotline numbers, including the "999", and the hotlines of the Force, the Consumer Council and the Hong Kong Tourism Board.

Meanwhile, the joint command centre jointly manned by a number of departments, including the Force, Immigration Department and Customs and Excise Department, was activated at Lowu during the National Day holiday period to monitor the clearance of passengers at various boundary crossings.

Speaking during a media visit to the centre, Border District Commander, Mr Fung Kwok-on, said the centre is capable of handling emergencies speedily and effectively.

Mainland visitors find the "Be a Smart Traveller" leaflet informative and useful

The joint command centre in full operation