To cop calls for preventive measures to cut crime rise

 By CLIFFORD FAIPARIK

REPORTED cases of rape and murder slightly increased in the past two years, police say.

Acting Deputy Police Commissioner (operation) Jim Andrews called on politicians and urban authorities to create more awareness and start community projects to keep the people occupied.

“Preventing crime is the best option to combat crime,” he said.

Police statistics show that there were 419 rape and related sexual offences reported last year compared to 403 in 2014.

There were 330 cases of murder and manslaughter in 2015 compared to 255 the previous year, with the National Capital District recording 117 in 2015 compared to 114 in 2014.  Lae city had  39 in 2015 compared to five in 2014.

Western Highlands had 24 in 2015 compared to six in 2014. Statistics from other provinces: Northern 20 in 2015 (five in 2014), Morobe 14 (six), Madang 13 (six), Jiwaka 13 (five), Enga 12 (eight), East Sepik 10 (three),  Northern 16 (16), Eastern Highlands 16 (16), Southern Highlands and West New Britain reported eight cases each in 2015 compared to seven in 2014. West Sepik reported two cases each in 2015 and 2014.

In comparison, East New Britain, Chimbu, Hela, Manus, Western, Milne Bay and New Ireland reported a decrease in reported cases of murder and manslaughter.