REGIONAL> Highlights
Fuzhou defense detachment pairs up with the public to tackle crime
By Hu Meidong and Liu Xintian  (China Daily Fujian Bureau)
Updated: 2009-07-23 18:45

Fuzhou defense detachment is the only border public security defense force in the country which held the honorable title of "the national advanced collectivities in overall control of social public security" between 2005 and 2008. China Daily interviewed this legendary detachment to find out what is the key for its success.

The importance of a solid foundation within the police

The policemen's comprehensive knowledge of the law is the key to maintaining social stability. Every policeman in Fuzhou is now an owner of a new law enforcement handbook which is regarded as a powerful weapon in their work. The handbook is easy to read and understand and helps police to quickly learn the basics of the law, improving their duty performance. The new law handbook is an example of the detachment's many recent improvements.

Over the years there have been many legal battles causing mass disturbance in Fuzhou creating public safety concerns. In an attempt to change this, the detachment established more police stations in high-crime areas. The newly established rules within the police are further improving its services making it more coordinated and comprehensive.

There are now 81 police service stations, 50 duty places, 19 public security posts, 345 alarm points, 802 notice boards spread along the coastal area, all contributing to public safety. Recent polls show on average around 96.7 percent of Fuzhou residents satisfied with the police. The number is significantly higher than those in previous years.

Fighting against crime strategically

Defense soldiers are responsible for the issue of stowaway in Fuzhou, which has been the detachment's main priority for many years. A series of anti-stowaway operations has been carried out in recent years such as 'Taiwan' and 'Tian Shan'. Over 60 stowaway cases involving over 700 people have been solved by the detachment. The '5•18 Great Stowaway Gang' case involving a large number of the area's main stowaway criminals was selected as one of China's top 10 cases by the Ministry of Public Security.

The detachment also achieved great results in cracking down on drug-related crimes. In the past three years over 30 drug-related cases have been solved including "2006•2•21", "2007•7•30" and "2008•3•6". As a result over 100 suspects have been arrested, 18 large drug gangs shut down with large amounts of illegal substances confiscated. The "2007•7•30" case was also listed in China's top 10 cases.

The community involvement helps fight crime

Without sufficient police forces and funds, the detachment had to make full use of the community. The police established village councils to provide extra safety in rural areas. The village councils, made up by police and village leaders, now play a big role in mediating local disputes and maintaining overall social stability.

Community organizations such as Community Volunteer Association in Haiyao, and security patrol party formed by 12 taxi drivers in South Qingyu, both in Fuqing, all contribute to maintaining public safety, mediating disputes and reinforcing the rule of law.

Currently Fuzhou defense detachment manages 1759 smaller defense organizations and runs all public security websites in Fuqing.