Detection rate for burglary cases averages 36pc in five years: security chief

The average detection rate for burglary cases stands at 36 percent, with Tseung Kwan O recording the lowest rate last year at just 11 percent, according to Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung.

In a written reply submitted to the Legislative Council on Wednesday, Tang noted that the detection rate for burglary cases across Hong Kong peaked at 42.6 percent in 2022 and dropped to 37.4 percent last year.

Detection rates in New Territories areas, including the Border District, Yuen Long, Tai Po, Tsuen Wan, and Tseung Kwan O, also fell significantly below the 36 percent average last year.

Meanwhile, Tang emphasized that burglary cases dropped to 1,220 in 2024, marking a 9.9 percent decline compared to the previous year, while the amount of loss was also reduced by 25.5 percent to HK$48 million. 

He reiterated that the police have adopted various measures to combat burglary cases, including installing closed-circuit televisions on traditional lampposts, smart lampposts, and government buildings since April 2024.

Drones and helicopters from the Government Flying Service are deployed for nighttime aerial patrols and the pursuit of burglars, while roadblocks are set up at different times and locations, he added.