Total of 1,326 arrests made in first half of this year, down from the 1,541 last year, but authorities warn of growing drug and assault issues
The number of crimes committed by juveniles in Hong Kong has dropped by 14 per cent in the first half of this year compared with the same period last year, with the largest decreases seen in fraud and money laundering.
However, the authorities reported that arrests of teenagers for dangerous drug offences, indecent assault and criminal damage had increased this year.
Commissioner of Police Joe Chow Yat-ming said on Monday that while the overall reduction in youth arrests reflected the impact of the force’s collaboration with other sectors, efforts must continue to prevent young people from breaking the law.
“Youth work could not be done by one party alone, not just police, or the Education Bureau, or teachers or social workers,” Chow said.
