Police ready to protect China's summer tourists

KUNMING - As the summer season kicks off, tourist destinations across China are increasing police presence to ensure any crimes or disputes are dealt with in a timely manner.

This increased presence follows a similar campaign last year, which was launched to handle disputes over forced shopping, exorbitant food prices and illegal vendors.

Police officers dispatched across resorts, parks and major scenic spots in Southwest China's Yunan Province are preparing for summer travel rush. Tourist visits to the province exceeded 300 million last year, generating 320 billion yuan in revenue.

Despite China's booming tourist market, complains about dishonest or poor service abound. Disputes between consumers and merchants sometimes escalate into violence without timely intervention by authorities.

The tourism police will respond to any complaints and coordinate with other regulatory bodies to address illegal activities.

"It's psychologically reassuring to know there are cops to watch out for travellers," said Zhang Pengfei, who traveled from northeast China to southwest Yunnan's Xishuangbanna.

Zhang added that during his travels he had filed complaints but the authorities had not responded immediately, and this had disrupted his travel plans.

Police based in Xishuangbanna since March this year have already uncovered a fake-liquor scheme in the tropical resort.