国内英语新闻:Chinese police tighten security for Spring Festival holidays

BEIJING, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Chinese police nationwide were urged Friday to tighten security and step up safety overhaul during the Chinese Lunar New Year and be "ready to handle emergencies to prevent serious accidents."

A circular from the Ministry of Public Security told local police authorities to increase scrutiny of fireworks parties, trade fairs, lantern shows, and temple fairs during the Spring Festival holiday which starts Saturday.

It said the police should assist in keeping public and traffic order around large events' venues and be ready to handle crime and emergencies.

Efforts should be made to strengthen security measures around train stations. Police authorities must release "safety tips" to the public through radio, newspapers and cell phone messages, it said.

More than 10,000 large events, including traditional temple fairs, will be held across the country during the seven-day holiday, with more than 320 events expected to attract more than 10,000 people each.

The latest ministry statistics show police solved nearly 1,200 homicide cases and 915 human trafficking cases last month.

Police also arrested nearly 470 suspects for using telephones to scam or defraud people in January, saving 3.45 million yuan (507,000 U.S. dollars) in economic losses.

Last month, the police busted nearly 2,000 bases for illegal fireworks' manufacture, sale, or transportation.

The Spring Festival, or the Lunar New Year, falls on Sunday. It is the most important annual Chinese festival, with family reunions, much fun and plenty of eating.