Foreign students are being targeted by criminals. In Eastbourne alone, eight youngsters were the victims of crime in one month.

Every year between April and September, Sussex Police run Operation Columbus to tackle the problems.

They work with language schools and other student groups to ensure the safety and wellbeing of foreign youngsters during their stay.

Columbus also deals with teenagers attending language schools who have been identified as offenders. Police said sometimes this was unwitting and the result of them not understanding local customs or laws.

A spokesman said: "Many of these students are vulnerable because of their age, understanding of English or lack of knowledge about English law. It is important that they recognise we take their safety seriously."

Police refused to reveal details of the types of crimes committed against foreign students. They said they had taken tough action against suspects and had already secured positive results.

Following the eight incidents in Eastbourne during Columbus's first month, seven suspects were identified.

Three have been charged, one reprimanded and two are on police bail. Lack of evidence against the seventh meant no action was taken.

In addition, four juveniles are being signed up to acceptable behaviour contracts as a direct result of being involved in offences against foreign students.

Operation Columbus coordinator, PC Stella Wells, said: "We are determined to take a robust stance against any offender who targets foreign students.

"Any crime against an innocent member of the public is despicable, but when the offender is intent on making a young visitor to our town a victim just because they are a foreign student, that makes the crime all the more repulsive.

"We will not tolerate these types of crimes being committed and any person identified as being involved will be dealt with and put before the courts.

"The language schools bring a great deal of revenue into the town and it is important that the students feel safe while they are here."

PC Wells said "only a very small proportion of visitors" had been targeted.

Two teenagers appeared before Eastbourne magistrates last week, charged with robbing two Austrian students. The youths, one 14 and one 15, are accused of stealing £100 from them on April 28. The 14-yearold was also charged with having a gun or fake gun.

The alleged offences are deemed so serious the teenagers will have their cases heard at crown court.

Eastbourne MP Nigel Waterson, said: "One incident is one too many but these are still relatively rare. I am pleased to say we welcome many thousands of foreign students each year and the vast majority have an enjoyable time.

"I support police efforts to keep on top of the problem."

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