THE safety of students and teachers on and off campus has become a major issue in the city.

The Municipal Public Security Bureau said yesterday that it had solved 305 criminal cases targeting students, teachers or their properties since June 16. That's when the Public Security Ministry issued eight measures to maintain security on campus and in neighboring areas.

Police authorities did not disclose details of solved cases, but officials said about 90 percent of them involved blackmail, theft and fights with injuries.

Local officers have conducted 8,107 safety checks at more than 3,200 schools throughout the city in the past five months. A total of 208 sentry boxes, for quick alarms of trouble, were set up in places where the social security situation was difficult.

Traffic police have established 763 new traffic signs and 164 traffic lights and added zebra lines at 892 venues. More police and police assistants have been dispatched to keep traffic order around campuses at daily rush hours.

Local fire authorities have carried out safety inspections at 1,356 schools and uncovered 956 obscure but dangerous situations.

Fire departments sent 238 rectification notices and fined 19 schools and six individuals.

"To further implement the eight measures (see box), we appeal to the public for their cooperation," said Sun Tinghua, vice director of city Public Order General Team.

He said once a student reports a case, the police should be alerted immediately.

(Shanghai Daily November 10, 2005)