Crime figures drop during Olympics

Police in Beijing reported an eight-year low in crime figures for August 8-24 when the Olympics was held thanks to tight security measures, it was revealed yesterday.

Crime figures reported during the Games were "the lowest" compared with the same periods in the past eight years, the police said.

Police said the number of serious cases such as murder, robbery and rape fell.

A total of 482 suspects, including 40 foreigners, were seized in the period for alleged involvement in robbery, mugging or theft. No case was reported at Olympic venues.