Concerns on crime

Lagan Valley MLA Paul Givan and Downshire Councillor Paul Stewart have warned people to be on their guard in the run up to Christmas following the study.

Areas with the largest increase include Hillsborough, Dromara, Anahilt and Drumbo.

Increase

Mr Givan commented, “Recent figures by the police are concerning in a number of ways.

“Of each rural area, Hillsborough has seen a 50% increase in the number of crimes on another person.

The rural area of Dromara, Anahilt and Drumbo has had a 35% increase in burglaries from April than during the same period last year.

“These statistics are quite alarming in the approach of Christmas.

“I would urge the public to be extra vigilant of their property and possessions and to report any suspicious activity.”

There are increases in offences against the person (25%), burglary (2.4%), theft (15.3%) and breach of court orders (12.5%),

Figures show that over the four local rural areas, rural south (Hillsborough and surrounding area) is the only one that has experienced a reduction in crime.

Despite this, rural South has actually experienced a 15.7% increase in offences against the person and a 35.3% increase in burglary.

Lisburn Policing Community Safety Partnership member, Councillor Stewart also commented: “Sadly the latest crime figures are rather disappointing for the rural areas, especially those in Downshire.

Careful

“While drugs offences see the largest overall drop, other crimes such as non-payment for fuel have increased in each rural neighbourhood in Lisburn.

“The percentages of offences against a person in Hillsborough and burglary in Dromara should make it clear to those within these areas to be careful and mindful or any abnormal activity.

“If everyone takes greater care in protecting themselves and their property hopefully these crime figures will decrease,” concluded Councillor Stewart.