The police are reporting a reduction in major crimes so far this year, when compared to the corresponding period, last year.

According to the latest statistics 2,861 cases were recorded up to Tuesday, August 3.

This is 294 fewer than the 3,155 recorded last year.

There were reductions in cases of rapes, robberies and break ins.

However, the police said 843 murders were recorded, compared to 781 last year, an increase of 62.

For shootings, 737 cases were recorded, compared to 716 last year, an increase of 21.