Annual statistics released by the Police Service of Northern Ireland have revealed that there has been a drop in crime.

The figures, which cover the period 1 April 2006 to 31 April 2007, show that there were 121,144 recorded crimes – a decrease of 1.7% (2,050) on recorded crimes in 2005/2006.

Deputy Chief Constable Paul Leighton has welcomed the decrease in crime and said that by continuing to develop policing techniques and by receiving increased support and assistance from communities’ police can make real inroads in tackling criminality and making Northern Ireland safer.

“In a number of categories there were marked decreases in the number of crimes being committed. This year burglary offences fell by 9.9%; theft offences fell by 5.8%; fraud and forgery offences fell by 12%. There was a decrease of 8.8% in the number of vehicle crimes recorded and robbery showed an overall decrease of 9.7%,” he said.

He also said the reductions were due to a number of proactive police operations, including targeting hot spot areas and prolific criminals, high visibility patrols and by exploiting all DNA and forensic opportunities. He also praised the increased cooperation by the public and other bodies in helping reduce crime.

The Policing Board Chairman, Professor Desmond Rea, said: “The figures published today show a welcome decrease in recorded crime. While this does not quite meet the 2% target set for the Police Service in the 2006/2007 Annual Policing Plan, it is a positive result. However, the decrease in clearance rates is of concern and the Board expects the PSNI to address this in the coming year.”

The statistics however, show an increase of violent crimes by 2.4%. Commenting on the results, Sir Desmond said: “Whilst the rise in violent crime is of concern, there are some very positive results in respect of reducing crimes such as domestic burglary and vehicle crime which are constantly highlighted as issues of concern throughout communities. These results build on reductions secured over the last number of years and evidence the success of a number of police initiatives at a local level.

“The Northern Ireland community, as a whole want to fell safe and has the right to feel safe in their homes or going about their business. Anyone who has been the victim of a crime will understand the importance of this and the need for the police to provide public assurance and reassurance.”

He continued: “We are entering a new era in the history of policing in Northern Ireland. The fact that incidences of shootings and paramilitary style attacks are at their lowest levels in the past decade evidences this. There is no doubt as we move away from our troubled past we have the opportunity to make our communities even safer – together.

“Northern Ireland continues to be one of the safest places to live in the United Kingdom.”

(JM/SP)