The Ministry of Public Security has recently launched a special campaign to crack down on crime harming birds and wild animals across the country.

The ministry has called for a thorough investigation to detect clues about the crime, according to a statement released on Thursday.

It urged local police to focus on key places, including pet bird markets, wild game restaurants and major habitats for migratory birds, and respond harshly to criminal activities.

Police in regions that are major habitats or located along routes of migration of birds and other wild animals should strengthen cooperation in evidence collection and case investigation, it said.

It said police should strengthen collaboration with government departments overseeing natural resources, forestry and grassland in law enforcement, and maintain close communication with courts and procuratorates to discuss difficult cases.

The ministry also called for events to promote public awareness of relevant laws and encourage the public to report on criminal activities.