China's top police chief revealed on Friday that a total of 2,717 police officers had died in the line of duty in the past six years, and another 29,000 were wounded.

Meng Jianzhu, Minister of Public Security, gave the figures during a national conference in Beijing, which was attended by police chiefs at provincial level.

Chinese police officers at all levels have made great sacrifices to fulfil their duties and safeguard national security as well as social stability, Meng said.

Compensation was provided to the bereaved families with help from local governments and Party organs, he added.
 
(Xinhua News Agency January 12, 2008)