According to sources from the General Secretariat for Security, the number of cases such as murder, arson and kidnapping dropped within a range of 24.1 to 66.7 percent last year from 2001.

Drug trafficking cases decreased nearly one-third and crimes committed by the young people declined 32.2 percent to stand at 120 in number for last year.

Police authorities said a series of efficient measures were taken to fight against crimes involving violence and patrols were added to prevent and curb drug trafficking.

The Macao police plan to add forces in casinos to ensure the healthy development of the gambling industry, the authorities said.

Still, the SAR security departments will consolidate links with the Guangdong and Hong Kong counterparts in sharing intelligence and taking joint action against crimes.

(Xinhua News Agency February 6, 2003)