Crime drops by 2 percent in first nine months of 2021

While crimes across The Bahamas decreased by two percent in the first nine months of the year, murders increased by 61 percent compared to the same period last year and manslaughter increased by 300 percent, national crime statistics released today by Police Commissioner Paul Rolle show.

Rolle said crimes against the person increased by 33 percent, with 583 incidents in 2021, compared to 439 in 2020.

According to statistics, between January and September, 42 murders were recorded in 2020 and 79 were recorded in 2021.

“Fatal gunshot wounds remain the leading cause of death accounting for 75 murder incidents,” Rolle said during a press conference.

“We were able to solve 59 percent of all murder cases from January to September 2021.”

Armed robberies increased by 51 percent, with 209 incidents in 2020, compared to 315 in 2021. 

Robbery and attempted robbery increased by eight and 50 percent, respectively.

“Armed robberies occurred mostly between the hours of 7 p.m. and 10 p.m.,” Rolle said.

“Most armed robberies occurred on the streets with business establishments and residences close behind. Firearms continue to be the weapon of choice for the commission of armed robberies.”

Statistics show there was a 13 percent decrease in sexual offenses, with 151 incidents reported in 2020, down from 131 in 2021. This category includes 32 reports of rape; five reports of attempted rape and 75 reports of unlawful sexual intercourse. 

There was also a 300 percent increase in manslaughter, with three incidents in 2020 compared to none in the first nine months of 2021.

Crimes against the property

Crimes against the property decreased by eight percent overall. There were 1,816 reports in 2021, compared to 1,955 reported incidents in 2020.  

According to Rolle, reports of stolen vehicles increased by 21 percent and stealing from vehicles decreased by 21 percent.

House break-ins increased by two percent.

Burglaries decreased by 50 percent. Reports of shopbreaking decreased by nine percent.

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source https://thenassauguardian.com/crime-drops-by-2-percent-in-first-nine-months-of-2021/