It takes a lot of organization and vigilance to rid any burglar inflicted town of its nemesis. But this neighborhood in Japan has turned to a new means of keeping the bad guys away. Based on a smart observation, the townsfolk of Suginami, Tokyo have turned to ‘Operation Flower’ to rid them of robberies. According to an official, growing flowers causes people to stay on the lookout more often since their care for their beloved plants can equal their love for humans. As a result of this, there are more people who are aware of their surroundings and thus lesser chances for thieves to get their job done. This operation started in 2006 and has seen a fall in burglaries from 1,710 in 2002 to 390 in 2008. That’s almost 80% down.

Besides ‘Operation Flower’ there are also other factors that have reduced the crime rate so drastically in this area. These include 200 security cameras, 9,600 voluntary patrollers and some very vigilant citizens.

[WeirdAsiaNews]