The Royal Bahamas Police Force has released its annual report for the period of 2022 to 2023, revealing a remarkable decline in major crimes across various districts of the archipelago.
Commissioner Clayton Fernander, in a press statement, highlighted a substantial 21 percent reduction in major crimes compared to the previous year, marking a significant achievement in law enforcement efforts.
Preliminary figures unveiled in the report indicate a notable decrease in the total number of major crimes, with 3,153 incidents recorded in 2023, down from 3,979 in 2022.
This decline was particularly evident in key areas such as New Providence and Grand Bahama, which saw drops of 23 per cent and 15 per cent, respectively. However, the crime rate in the Family Islands District remained steady compared to the previous year.
Crimes against property witnessed a commendable 19 percent decrease, with 2,356 incidents reported in 2023, compared to 2,907 in 2022.
Regional statistics further showcased declines in this category, with reductions of 22 per cent in New Providence, 10 per cent in Grand Bahama, and 4 per cent in the Family Islands District.
Equally striking was the decrease in crimes against persons, which saw a significant 26 percent drop, with 797 incidents recorded in 2023, down from 1,072 in 2022.
While New Providence and Grand Bahama experienced substantial decreases of 27 per cent and 35 per cent, respectively, crimes against persons in the Family Islands District bucked the trend, registering a surprising 33 per cent increase.
The report also detailed a decrease in homicides by 14 per cent, with 110 incidents reported in 2023, compared to 128 in 2022. Most homicides were concentrated in New Providence, comprising 106 cases, while Grand Bahama recorded 3 homicides and the Family Islands District had 1.
Impressively, the overall solvency rate for homicides stood at 65 percent.
Further analysis of the report revealed that armed robberies decreased by 34 per cent, robberies by 44 per cent, stolen vehicles by 22 per cent, and housebreakings by 27 per cent.
Shopbreakings also saw a decline of 28 per cent. These reductions underscored the effectiveness of law enforcement strategies implemented during the reporting period.
The Royal Bahamas Police Force attributed the positive outcomes to a combination of proactive measures, including intensified patrols, targeted stop-and-search operations, and strategic deployment of resources.
Notably, the force conducted 16,406 field check patrols, 45,655 stop and search profiles, 683 road checks, and 668 search warrants, resulting in 16,950 arrests for various major and minor offenses.
Of those arrested, 11,516 individuals were charged and brought before the courts, reflecting a commendable 69 percent charge rate.
Additionally, the confiscation of 355 firearms and 8,995 rounds of ammunition, along with the detection of 1,357 gunshot incidents by ShotSpotter, further underscored law enforcement’s commitment to ensuring public safety and security throughout The Bahamas.
As the nation looks ahead, the Royal Bahamas Police Force remains steadfast in its dedication to maintaining the downward trend in crime, fostering a safer and more secure environment for all residents and visitors alike.
This article was created using automation and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
