KOROR (Palau Horizon) — The number of criminal offenses in Palau has declined by 20 percent in the first quarter of 2002, statistics from the Ministry of Justice showed.
Based on records, of the 64 cases received by the Criminal Investigation Division from January to April 2002, 40 of these or 63 percent had been solved. Last year, 52 out of 100 criminal cases were solved.
Justice Minister Michael Rosenthal said drug trafficking has also been significantly reduced.
“The decrease in crime appears to be the direct result of better policies, improved police work, and strong leadership from President (Tommy Remengesau),” Rosenthal said.
He also lauded the involvement of the community and its coordination with the Bureau of Public Safety.
“Solving cases is quicker because of more involvement from the community,” Rosenthal said.
Traffic violations also dropped significantly. Last year, there were 313 reported complaints from January to March. This figure went down to 241 within the same period this year.
Traffic citations issued by the Patrol Division went down from 2,471 in 2001 to 1,224.
Citations include curfew violations, traffic and alcohol, beverage and tobacco control.
Rosenthal said the ministry will further intensify its efforts.
