Commenting today on the publication of the recorded crime statistics by the Central Statistics Office, Commissioner Martin Callinan welcomed the impact targeted operations such as Operation Fiacla have had on the recorded statistics, particularly on burglaries (which are down 11% for the last quarter of 2012, and have stabilised over a 12 month period):
"The Policing Plan, 2013 of An Garda Síochána sets out the continued commitment of An Garda Síochána to pro-actively target groups and individuals engaged in criminal activity, including organised criminal activities and armed crime.
An Garda Síochána continues to develop and implement operations and strategies aimed at targeting, dismantling and disrupting criminal networks, utilising advanced analytical and intelligence methodologies.”
Highlighting the importance of tackling drugs crime, the Commissioner commended members of the force for their work in the area, seen in drugs seizures worth an estimated €100m:
"By targeting drug crime, we can have an impact across all crime categories from serious violent crime through to thefts, robberies and public order. I therefore welcome the seizures which resulted from targeted and intelligence-led garda activity at both local and national level”
In conclusion the Commissioner has re-iterated the commitment of An Garda Síochána to continue to provide a professional and effective policing service within the prevailing economic conditions:
"As a service, we can never over-emphasise the importance of the partnership between ourselves and the community in continuing to prevent and detect crime and maintaining a safe environment for everyone.”
Garda Press Office
