The Manchester police are reporting reductions in six categories of serious and major crimes since the start of the year, when compared with the same period, last year.

Commanding Officer, Superintendent Wayne Cameron says reductions have been recorded in murders, shootings, aggravated assault, robberies, break-ins, and larceny.

He says, murder is down by 2, and shooting is down by six.

However, the Manchester top cop says, the parish is seeing an increase in the incidents of rape.

Nineteen persons have been raped since the start of the year, four more than the 15 reported last year, this time.

Superintendent Cameron says, that the police have been making efforts to clamp down on areas in Mandeville, used to conduct sexual activity.

Meantime, the Manchester Chamber of Commerce has issued a call, for the government to take a leadership role, in tackling the spiralling murder rate.

President of the Manchester Chamber of Commerce, Garfield Green says the government’s role is necessary, in resolutely tackling crime.

Mr. Green pointed to the need for the authorities to protect the lives of innocent people especially children, as there has been, no regard given to children by criminals.

However, he mentioned, that there should not be anything implemented, to breach human rights and freedom.

He says, the level of social intervention must be taken into consideration, and people must be taught the importance of self-respect and pride.

Mr. Green was addressing the Manchester Chamber of Commerce’s monthly meeting, last evening.