More than 100 pickpockets were turned in to police by civilians during the first eight months of the year, reports Beijing Youth Daily.

Residents have become more enthusiastic about helping police catch criminals. Thanks to tip-offs called in over an anti-theft hotline, officers arrested 179 suspected thieves this year, police said.

In the latest case, which took place on a bus on Tuesday, a woman discovered her zippered bag had been opened and her purse was missing. She spotted the suspect and barred his way to the door until she was able to notify police to arrest him.

But law enforcement authorities are reminding people to be careful, as confronting a thief can be risky.

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