China's police forces have formed a nationwide computerized network to share information about fugitives, fingerprints, stolen vehicles and other crimes.

Sources with the Ministry of Public Security said Wednesday that almost all police officers throughout the country have access to the network, including those in border checkpoints and exit-entry administrations.

The network can verify the identification cards of Chinese citizens and help the police with anti-terrorism and anti-drug operations, a statement released by the ministry said.

The Public Security Ministry is working with other government agencies such as the ministries of national security and foreign affairs, the central bank and civil aviation administration to share information from the network.