Map warns of crime hot spots at Sihui transport hub

Thieves might find their business more difficult around the Sihui transport hub as plainclothes police officers have made a special anti-theft map, highlighting places where there is an increased risk of theft.

The map notes six places in which commuters should be more cautious at the hub, according to a map printed by the Beijing Youth Daily.

Theft black spots include nearby restaurants, the tunnel connecting Sihui Subway Station and the transport hub, which is dimly lit, and the hub's crowded overpasses.

However, Beijing Municipal Public Security Bureau (PSB) media officer Zi Xiangdong said Thursday the map was not official.

"Beijing Youth Daily made the map themselves, according to a description given to their reporters by police officers," said Zi.

With the Chinese New Year approaching on February 10, 2013, the PSB has stepped up law enforcement.

The bureau declared Tuesday in a press release that it has launched a special campaign targeting crimes involving loss of personal property.

"The campaign targets burglary, car thefts, robbery, telephone fraud and theft," the report says.

Wang Dawei, professor of criminology at the Chinese People's Public Security University told the Global Times that crimes related to property theft peak annually in November and December.

"Many criminals want to make a fortune before Chinese New Year. So at this time, the number of crimes, especially thefts, fraud and robbery rockets," said Wang.

Wang warned residents that they should be more cautious now.

"Mobile phone theft cases have increased in recent days, especially on public vehicles. Residents should try to limit cellphone use in public," said Wang, who added that thieves especially target white phones as they are fancier.

"Also, avoid going into underground parking lots alone, as many criminals choose to rob people there," said Wang.