CRIME levels fell by 5 per cent over the last four months, compared to the same period last year, according to the latest official figures. The number of rapes reported to the Garda was 10 per cent higher but there was a reduction in most other forms of crime.
The provisional figures show a 53 per cent drop in the murder rate, from 17 to the end of April last year to eight by the end of this April. Burglaries were up 2 per cent but aggravated burglaries (including the use of firearms) were 52 per cent lower.
Ordinary robbery was up 1 per cent although larceny from the person fell 8 per cent, larceny from cars fell 14 per cent, and larceny from shops was 5 per cent lower.