Spike in robberies seen but serious crimes down -police

Although there has been a 22% increase in robberies for the year up to the end of September, 2018, compared with the same period last year, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has recorded an overall decrease in serious crimes.

On Thursday, the GPF released statistics showing that there was a 22% increase in robberies where no instruments were used by the perpetrators as well as a 4% increase in robbery with violence.

However, decreases were seen in all other serious crime categories.

The GPF said there was a 17% decrease in murder; a 3% decrease in armed robbery where firearms were used; a 20% decrease in armed robbery where instruments other than firearms were used; a 36% decrease in robbery with aggravation; a 13% decrease in larceny from the person; a 2% decrease in rape; a 9% decrease in burglary and a 11% decrease in break and enter and larceny.

Meanwhile, the GPF also noted that there has been a 5.7% decrease in fatal accidents recorded at the end of September, 2018. A total of 74 deaths were recorded at the end of September, with almost half (36) being attributed to speeding. Serious, minor and damage accidents have also been decreased by 31.5%, 46% and 27.1%, respectively, the GPF noted.