China to send members of its police force to Rome and Milan to protect its tourist citizens

The Chinese government has effected plans to send members of its police force to Milan and Rome to help protect its tourist citizens there.

It is also aimed at helping Italy's more than three million yearly Chinese visitors feel safe.

According to CNN, four officers wearing Chinese police uniforms, will share information with Italian police and help Chinese visitors in need to contact authorities or report crimes.

Describing the move as a European first, Italian Home Secretary Angelino Alfano said "its main goal is to heighten the sense of security for Chinese tourists who come here. In the future, the project might be expanded to include other cities as well"

Also, Italy Police Chief Alessandro Pansa said the Chinese police deployment was a leap forward for crime-fighting.

In the past, Chinese tourists have been targeted by criminals and gangs who see them as easy prey.