Police attach great importance to the increase in robberies in country parks, Commissioner of Police Dick Lee says, adding that Police officers have stepped up patrols in the area.

Speaking on a radio talk show this morning, Mr Lee said 11 robberies in country parks were reported in the first four months this year while a total of 18 cases were reported last year.

Noting that most of the culprits are illegal immigrants from the Mainland or two-way permit holders, he did not rule out the possibility that local people could be involved in these crimes.

Mr Lee admitted that the detected rate of such cases is low because country parks cover a large area and the suspects - most of whom were illegal immigrants - flee Hong Kong after committing the crime.

He reminded local people not to go hiking in odd hours and to visit country parks in groups.

On the Tin Shui Wai family tragedy, Mr Lee said the investigations are still underway and appropriate actions will be taken if officers are found to have been negligent.

Police handled over 2,400 family violence cases last year and 1,600 of them were referred to the Social Welfare Department, Mr Lee said, adding that officers will ensure the safety of the victims when handling such cases.

Speaking on the impact of the increase of Mainland tourists on Hong Kong's security situation, Mr Lee said there has been a good communication and intelligence exchange system between the two jurisdictions. He did not see the upsurge creating additional security problems for the city.