Isle of Man crime 'falls by 10%'

Recorded crime in the Isle of Man has fallen by more than 10%, government figures show.

From April 2008 to March 2009, a total of 3,424 crimes were recorded, with a detection rate of 51% - compared to the average in England and Wales of 27%.

The chief constable's annual report will be considered at this month's Tynwald sitting.

Adrian Earnshaw MHK said the figures showed the island was "an extremely safe place to live or visit."

Drug seizures rise

Criminal damage offences fell by almost 10% and public order offences fell by about 30%.

Instances of domestic violence increased, as did the number of drug seizures.

Mr Earnshaw said: "We are fortunate to live in a community where crime levels remain low and where neighbourhood policing is paying real dividends in terms of detecting crimes and the use of intelligence.

"There are areas of concern that may need greater attention in the coming year, and I will be discussing with the chief constable where our focus will be in the future."