22% increase in robberies; 72 murders for 2018

The Guyana Police Force Thursday reported a 22% increase in robberies and a total of 72 murders up to the end of September 2018.

According to the statistics released by the Force, 30 of the murders were disorderly, 20 were domestic, 13 were in the course of a robbery, one was an execution, and eight were under unknown circumstances.

The figures represent a decrease of 17%, compared to the same period last year.

The 22% increase in robberies were in instances where no instruments were used, while there was a 4% increase in robbery with violence.

Overall, there was a 9% decrease in serious crimes at the end of September 2018, the Force reported.

There was a 3% decrease in robbery under arms where firearms were used; a 20% decrease in robbery under arms where instruments other than firearms were used; a 36% decrease in robbery with aggravation; a 13% decrease in larceny from the person; a 2% decrease in rape; a 9% decrease in burglary; and an 11% decrease in break and enter and larceny.

Meanwhile, a total of 97 illegal firearms were seized for the same period. For the corresponding period last year, 97 unlicensed guns were also confiscated.

Among those seized were 54 pistols, 22 revolvers, 15 shotguns, one submachine and five rifles.