The overall crime rate rose 0.4% from January to August, Secretary for Security Ambrose Lee says, adding Hong Kong's crime situation is stable.

Speaking after the Fight Crime Committee meeting today, Mr Lee said violent crime rose 2.4% with increases recorded for criminal intimidation and damage, indecent assault and serious drug offences.

"There are also a number of crimes which have recorded a downward trend. These include burglary, robbery and car theft. Overall, the crime situation in Hong Kong is rather stable. Hong Kong is still a very safe place," he said.

Although the number of drug offenders has dropped in recent years, the number of young people taking drugs is rising, with 550 youngsters arrested for serious drug offences, a 90%-surge on the same period last year.

Mr Lee said apart from enforcement, education and promotion programmes will also be bolstered to educate the public, especially youngsters, on drugs.