Latest statistics that show a drop in major crimes are “encouraging and moving in the right direction”, according to Public Safety Minister Michael Dunkley.

Figures released last week show that crime rates fell in 2013, with decreases in offences such as murder, assault, robbery and offences against children.

Police Commissioner Michael DeSilva attributed the decline to “community support, community efforts and community action”.

And last night Mr Dunkley praised police for building “solid community relationships” that were having a major impact on crime.

“Safe communities form the foundation for a recovery of the Island’s economic fortunes and this Government’s investment in keeping Bermuda safe by supporting the Bermuda Police Service is a sound strategy,” Mr Dunkley said.

“The Police Commissioner, his senior command and the men and women of the BPS have worked extremely hard over several years to build solid community relationships and to provide strong enforcement action.

“These results demonstrate the effectiveness of the strategic focus on guns, gangs, drugs and violence.

“As the Commissioner stated, this has been a community effort recognising that enforcement is only one element of the success equation.

“That is why, concurrently, the Government has instituted programmes like GREAT in schools, supported Team StreetSafe in gang mediation efforts and committed to the core principles of the Inter-Agency Gang Task Force.

“Through Neighbourhood Watch 2.0, technology has also been introduced into the fight for safer neighbourhoods and with corporate support, this initiative is spreading and enhancing existing Neighbourhood Watches.

“The progress that has been made is most encouraging and the Government will continue to support the Police in their mission of keeping Bermuda safe.”