25/01/2007

Recorded crime falls but drugs offences rise

Total recorded crime in England and Wales has fallen by 3%, but figures published today have revealed an increase in drug offences and robberies.

The British Crime Survey, which deals with crimes reported between July and September revealed an increase in muggings, which were up 14%, drugs offences rose by 9% and robberies were up 1%.

The quarterly Survey also noted that vandalism was up by 11% with almost three million incidents reported.

However, overall recorded crime was down by 3% and crimes involving personal injury were down by 7% in the period.

The Prime Minister congratulated police on the crime figures.

He said: "Tough laws - including a minimum five years for possessing a gun - are bearing fruit. Neighbourhood policing teams are expanding across the UK. In London every community now has its own patrolling team. And this has been achieved while still driving down burglary and vehicle crime."

(SP/EF)

Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

25 January 2005
Survey reveals falling level of some crimes
The overall crime rate in England and Wales is continuing to fall, according to the results of the British Crime Survey (BCS). The survey showed that the overall crime rate fell by 11%, in the year ending September 2004.
07 September 2009
Brixton Drug Gang Get Long Sentences
A gang of criminals who ran a lucrative drug dealing network from a car tyre shop in Brixton were sentenced last week to a total of 81 years in prison. Nine men, who were previously convicted of conspiracy to supply class A drugs, appeared at Kingston Crown Court today to hear their sentences.
24 January 2008
Latest Figures Show Gun Crime Rise
Gun crime is on the rise, according to the latest figures released by the Home Office, it was up by 4% in England and Wales last year. However, the number of firearms offences resulting in fatalities decreased from 55 to 49, while serious injuries from firearms offences fell by 16%.
21 August 2015
Seven Arrested In Connection With Oldham Armed Robbery
Police have executed a number of warrants, arrested seven people and seized cars, cash, drugs and weapons following an armed robbery in Oldham.
04 November 2014
Four Arrested Over Plymouth Cannabis Seizure
Border Force officers have seized cannabis discovered in the fuel tank of a car at the port of Plymouth. Three men, aged 43, 39, 36, and a woman aged 32, have been arrested in connection with the find. They are being held on conspiracy to import cannabis.