Beijing police to deepen underage expertise

Beijing police pledged to strengthen joint efforts on child protection as well as provide more help to young offenders and victims in a bid to improve the quality of case handling.

In a statement released over the weekend, the Beijing Public Security Bureau said that although it has taken measures since last year to ensure greater professionalism in dealing with cases involving people under 18, they have so far not been sufficient.

Last year, 16 sub-bureaus across the capital were required to set up a special area for dealing with child-related cases, as well as establish a fast-track for underage victims to obtain medical services.

At the same time, after being trained in the best ways to handle cases involving children, 1,092 police officers were certified and began to focus on the work.

The bureau also sought to deepen its understanding of young offenders and victims by partnering with social workers and conducting surveys, paying particular attention to changes in mood and family background, the statement added.

While it will maintain joint aid, the bureau said it will further regulate procedures to better protect children.