China will put extra energy into the fight against crime during the traditional lunar new yearholiday or the Spring Festival next month.

Jia Chunwang, the minister of Public Security, said Tuesday at a teleconference that the "strike hard" campaign is a political priority and it is expected to curb rampant crime.

He said that the campaign will ensure people a happy and relaxed festival atmosphere and will create a sound and secure social environment.

Jia has asked the police to intensify its patrols, tightly control key areas and to safeguard important places.

He said that the fight against crime will also be of benefit tothe National People's Congress annual session in March.

( People's Daily January 22, 2002)