Crime figures fall

The report, released yesterday, showed that overall crime has been reduced by a total of 402 incidents in the last 12 months, representing a percentage drop of 15.5%, whilst clearance rates have improved by 2.7%.

Area Commander, Chief Inspector Stephen Cargin said: "This is a significant reduction given the challenges we are facing at the start of the financial year. back in July we were looking at a 100% increase in burglaries, however we have ended the financial year with a 22% reduction.

It is a similar story which has now been reduced by 173 incidents.

"This is the result of a back to basic approach targeting offenders through rigorous bail checks and stop and search powers. In tackling violent crime we worked closely with our colleagues in the Fire and Rescue Service and council officers to ensure licensed premises were operating safely and legally. Co-ordinated joint inspections, bike patrols and a high visibility presence at weekends have all contributed to making Limavady safer."

In the past 12 months incidences of assault drop by 147, sexual offences fell by 36.6% and theft motor vehicles dropped by 30%.

By comparison some of the other areas in the PSNI's G District command did not fare so well. Overall, Magherafelt showed an increase in crime of 3.9%, whilst Foyle showed an increase in 96 incidences of violent crime and 65 more instances of terrorist related crime. However, Foyle's clearance rate did chart a 25.5% improvement. Strabane did fare better with an overall drop in crime of 4.7%.

The substantive drop in Limavady's crime statistics has been welcomed by councillors' in Limavady. UUP Councillor Jack Rankin told the Sentinel: "From my point of view this is very positive. I am pleased that the message has gone out to the general public that the PSNI is now working well in the community, and long may it continue.

"I wish to say well done to the police in the area. One thing I will say is that it shows that whilst the police are not always visible, they are working."

SDLP Councillor Michael Coyle said: "The fact that there is such a reduction in crime and the clearance rate is to be welcomed. This is something not only down to the police but other community agencies and the general public. The DPP in Limavady have worked well with the police and that has paid off.

"I look forward to an even greater reduction in crime and greater increase in clearance rates in the next 12 months."

Chief Inspector Cargin said: "None of this would have been possible without the support of the wider public."

Whilst overall G District Commander, Chief Superintendent Stephen Martin said: "Although the vast majority of these figures are extremely positive, we cannot afford to be complacent."