Chinese police patrol the streets of Italy to protect Chinese tourists

Chinese police officers have begun patrolling the streets of Rome and Milan, according to officials from both countries. This is to protect wealthy Chinese tourists from becoming victims of crime by immigrant gangs, which have emerged in large numbers after last year's massive migrant intake in Italy, and especially in Rome.

The project will last for two weeks, when wealthy Chinese tourists are expected to visit Italy in extra large groups to shop exclusive brands such as Gucci and Prada. 

About three million Chinese tourists visit Italy every year, and authorities in the home country are worried that they'll get in trouble or mugged.

The Xinhua News Agency reports that Chinese police in this process will assist the Italian police in security matters related to Chinese tourists, and to help Chinese tourists to communicate with the local police.

- We hope to increase the feeling of security for all Chinese tourists, said Italy's police chief Alessandro Pansa, according to Chinese media.

The Chinese police officers will patrol until May 13, but the authorities are open to expand the project, and also to other Italian cities.

- If the experiment is successful, we can expand to more Italian cities, said Interior Minister Angelino Alfano.

He added:

- In exchange, Italian police officers will also visit Beijing and Shanghai, and join Chinese police in joint enforcement actions.