Kowloon West anti-burglary operation nets 38 persons 
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	Police arrested a total of 38 persons during an anti-burglary operation codenamed "Expunger" mounted in Kowloon West from Monday (February 25) to yesterday (February 27).

	The number of burglaries in the Kowloon West Region has fallen by 11.3% from 1,529 in 2006 to 1,356 in 2007.  Yet Police in the region have been making continuous efforts in the prevention and detection of the crime and burglary is one of the operational priorities this year. 

	During the three-day operation, Kowloon West police officers raided and checked various places in the region, resulting in the arrest of 31 men and seven women aged between 17 and 63.  Among those arrested, 16 men and three women were suspected to be connected with eight cases of burglary in the region in the past four months, while the other 15 men and four women were arrested for possession of dangerous drugs, theft from vehicle, deception or overstaying.

	Suspected stolen property, including seven watches and shark fins worth $300,000 and $15,000 respectively, as well as breaking equipment, were seized during the operation.

	Among those arrested, two men and two women aged between 25 and 58 were each charged with burglary and appeared in Kowloon City Magistrates' Courts today (February 28).  The remaining arrested persons were released on police bail pending further enquiries. 

	Some 15,000 leaflets were also distributed to members of the public advising them on ways to prevent burglary and enhancing their awareness of the crime.

	It is hoped that through this well-coordinated operation, the number of burglaries in the region will fall further while Police will continue their strenuous efforts against the crime.

Police Report No. 8
Issued by PPRB

Ends/Thursday, February 28, 2008
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