Stats show drop in crime rate

THERE were 20 rape cases, including rape of minor,   and 16 murder cases reported to police in the first week of this month.
Crime statistics released by the office of the deputy commissioner of police (operations) has shown a slight decrease in the number of crimes committed.
Compared to the same period last month, violent crimes have dropped by 3% from 14.25% to 11.25%.
NCD, Momase and Highlands and Islands regions have however recorded an increase in crime whereas the Southern region recorded no crimes for the same period.
The daily police crime summary report for the period Dec 1-8 had reported 20 rapes, 16  murders, 17 arm robberies, 23 break and enter, 13 drug offences, 20 stealing of money cases, six motor vehicle thefts and five fraud cases.   
There was only one reported case of abduction. 
In response to the crime report Jim Namora, NCD  police chief of operations,  warned the public and motorists in NCD and elsewhere to be mindful of their safety while celebrating this festive season. 
“I appeal to women drivers especially to wind up their window glasses when driving so as to hide their identities to criminals as criminals are now targeting female drivers and other vulnerable individuals,” he said.
Namora said car thieves were also targeting  Honda CRV sports utilities and Toyota RAV 4 vehicles and owners of these types of vehicles must take extra precautions.