Crime in Medway fell by a fifth overall during the last three months of 2007, but drug offences appear to be on the rise.

Home Office figures reveal between October and December a total of 5,530 crimes were reported compared with 6,963 for the same period in 2006.

Robbery fell by more than half with 54 per cent fewer crimes.

Violent crime also fell by 24 per cent and sexual offences by around 30 per cent.

Other reductions were seen in burglary, vehicle crime, criminal damage and theft.

Drug offences in the Towns rose by 15 per cent. Medway Police say this reflects a nationwide trend.

Medway's Area commander, Chief Superintendent Jan Stephens, said: “We are encouraged by these statistics which illustrate what we believe - Medway is a safe place to live."

What do you think of the latest figures? Is Medway really a safe place to live? Join the debate. Email your comments to:medwaymessenger@thekmgroup.co.uk

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