Hong Kong's crime situation in 2006 remained stable, though the number of cases reported rose 4.8 percent over 2005, Commissioner of Police Tang King-shing said Thursday.

The police chief told lawmakers that the overall crime rate stood at 1,160 reported crimes per 100,000 population, representing a 3.9 percent rise over 2005.

Declines have been seen in pick-pocketing, blackmail, robberies and snatching. The number of burglaries fell 3.2 percent, the lowest since 1974.

Looking ahead, the commissioner said seven operational targets have been set for this year according to last year's crime situation and trend, which include combating violent crime, "quickcash" crimes and abuse of dangerous drugs.

Besides, special committees are to be set up for security of large events, such as the chief executive elections, celebrations to mark the 10th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to the motherland, and Olympic equestrian.

(Xinhua News Agency January 26, 2007)