The police are reporting a 4 per cent increase in murders.

According to the latest crime data released by the constabulary, 958 murders were recorded up to Friday August 19, 37 more than the 921, recorded in the corresponding period, last year.

The St. James police division recorded the highest number of murders with 132, followed by St. Catherine north with 94.

There were also increases in cases of robbery and break-ins.

Meantime, there was a decline in reported cases of rape.