[defen]

> But I do notice many buildings in the cities I visit have thick strong window bars even up above the 5th floor.

Thieves will rappel down from the roof, so no floor is really safe without the bars.

[ggm]

I lack the criminal mind. I've been wondering about this, in HK, Beijing, Jakarta, KL, Sau Paulo, Buenos Aires, unable to work out what he threat risk was that high.

Now I know: the intersection of thief, and rock-climber.