Total crime dipped by six per cent last year despite an alarming surge in armed robberies.
There were 2,736 offences recorded between January 1 and December 31st 2010 compared to 2,896 incidents in 2009.
Commissioner of Police Edward Hall said armed robberies were a major challenge for the under-resourced force. Robberies saw a significant hike with 146 offences reported in 2010 a 30 per cent increase on the 112 which took place in 2009. It’s fair to say criminals exploit our vulnerabilities and create a need for concern throughout the community, especially Providenciales, Commissioner Hall said.
Total cash stolen last year topped $213,000 while the value of jewelry nabbed was $367,000.Overall crime reached a peak in July which saw a whopping 273 offences take place. November was the most peaceful month with 143 incidents.
The Commissioner said special operations Alpha 1 and 2 which included stepped up patrols and a gun amnesty had severely dispersed criminal elements. There was also a welcomed five per cent increase in the forces detection rate. Last year, 26 per cent of crime was solved, compared to 21 per cent in 2009.
The bulk of crime continues to take place in most densely populated Providenciales which saw 2,182 incidents in 2010. Grand Turk had 429 crimes recorded, while South Caicos came in as the third biggest offender with 86.North Caicos had 32, Middle had four and Salt Cay three.
Burglary and theft remained the most prevalent offences across the Islands with 810 and 328 incidents reported respectively. There were also 373 assaults and woundings, 223 incidents of damage to property, 194 motor vehicle interferences and 116 drug offences. In addition, there were 123 firearm crimes, 54 sexual offences and four murders.
Last year, 32 crimes were committed against visitors a slight decrease on the 34 reported in 2009.
