reported by the National 1st Nov.

Serious crimes in Lae city drops
By PETER MIVASTRATEGIC Police operations to reduce serious crimes in Lae have been successful with the recording of very low crime figures this month compared to the past four months. Metropolitan Superintendent yesterday confirmed that serious crimes in Lae which were high in June, July, August and September were at their lowest this month. Statistics provided by Mr Kauba cited only 87 serious crimes on record for October compared to 199 in September, 100 in August, 171 in June and 172 cases in July. Armed robberies reduced from 60 cases in September to only 20 reported cases for this month while 26 cases were reported in August, June with 40 and July recording 47 cases. Out of these robberies, eight arrests were made by police. There were 12 reported rape cases this month compared to 13 cases in September, six in August, 13 in June and 26 cases in July. The statistics showed four murders this month compared to 11 murders in September while there were four murders committed in August and eight cases in July. Out of the four murders recorded, police made four arrests.There were 12 drug offences recorded this month compared to nine cases in September, 11 in August and 27 and 18 cases respectively for the months of June and July. Police made 13 drug offences arrests this month out of the 12 cases. There were five recorded break-ins into commercial properties and only three break-ins into private residences recorded for this month while September recorded six break-ins equalling the month of August. Mr Kauba said there had been regular foot beats by policemen in strategic locations around the city which had given little room to those intent on causing problems and petty crimes on innocent peace-loving community comprising business houses and residents. He said police efforts had only been assisted by businesses and residents, who had been cooperative to help curb crime by reporting crimes immediately to police for quick action. Mr Kauba said police patrols would extend to this weekend’s Morobe Show to ensure a peaceful atmosphere for visitors and residents and participating companies displaying their various products to the public.