The number of traffic-related fatalities climbed last year, even though the number of accidents actually fell - prompting Police to step up the road safety campaign.

Speaking on a radio talk show this morning, Deputy  Police Commissioner Tang King-shing said there were about 14,000 traffic accidents in 2003, a 7.3% drop when compared with 2002.  However, the number of fatalities increased 18.3%.

Driving too close to the vehicle in front, careless lane changing and improper use of the fast lane were the primary accident causes.

The Force may also approach the courts to explain the situation so they may consider imposing heavier penalties on reckless drivers.

Intelligence exchanges aim to curb cross-boundary crime

To prevent street-level deception involving foreign visitors, Mr Tang said, Hong Kong, Guangdong and Macau have agreed in a recent meeting that there was a need to have a closer intelligence exchange.

They will also consider setting up a common database to monitor suspicious people to stop them from committing crime in the three areas.

In addition, Guangdong and Hong Kong will consider establishing a special liaison channel that would allow quick and appropriate actions to be taken in cases in which people are detained and forced to hand over their ATM cards and PIN numbers so the criminals can withdraw money from their accounts.

On the investigations of an operation to curb triad-related vice activities in Kowloon West on Thursday, Mr Tang said police enquiries showed that the arrested prostitutes are all Hong Kong residents.

He said the syndicate posted newspaper advertisements to recruit receptionists, cashiers and later persuaded those hired to be prostitutes.