KARONGI - Security officials have confirmed that the crime rate in the Western Province has significantly reduced this year, compared to other previous years.

During a security meeting last Friday, western region Police Commander, Chief Supt Bosco Rangira, said that unlike in the past, crimes this year were fewer and efforts to reduce them have been successful.

Though detailed statistics were not available by press time, it was noted that the use of illicit drugs and excessive use of alcohol were among the common crimes registered over the last 8 months.

"This has often resulted into other crimes such as robbery, defilement and other forms of hostile behaviour. It therefore requires collective efforts from both residents and security organs to combat such crimes,” Rangira said.

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