Police report sharp drop in robberies, steep rise in cybercrime

Robberies fell sharply this year even as cybercrime surged, the Police Force said on Friday, outlining crime trends ahead of the holiday security period.

Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum, speaking at the launch of the Force’s Christmas policing programme, said 270 robberies were reported in 2025, a steep decline from peaks of more than 1,200 in previous years. Most firearm-related robberies occurred between 6 p.m. and midnight, and pistols remained the weapons most often recovered.

In contrast, cybercrime rose to 241 cases, up from 23 last year. Police secured 50 charges and 12 convictions. Blanhum said the increase reflected both growing online criminal activity and improved investigative capacity.

The Force recorded 801 serious crimes this year, down from 1,070 in 2024 and the lowest total in a decade. Region 4A, which includes Georgetown’s main commercial districts, accounted for 24 per cent of all major incidents. Region 4B recorded the highest number of murders at 24, while Region Two reported two.

Drug seizures rose sharply, with officers confiscating 233 kg of cocaine, compared with six kilograms last year. Police also charged 244 people with cannabis-related offences and removed 100 illegal firearms originating from the United States, Brazil, Austria, Italy and other countries.

Blanhum credited the decline in traditional crime to data-driven deployment and stronger investigative work.

The Christmas policing programme, running from November 15, 2025 to January 15, 2026 will include boosted patrols and enhanced intelligence-sharing as authorities prepare for heavier commercial activity and larger crowds during the holiday season.