Andhra Pradesh’s crime rate dips by 35% amid Covid curbs

The curfew imposed to contain Covid-19 spread has also helped contain crime in Andhra Pradesh. According to police data, there has been over 35% reduction in overall crime in the state in the month of May compared to April. A total of 40,474 cases were registered across the state, the highest — 14% — from West Godavari. 

West Godavari is followed by Kurnool, Chittoor and Anantapur that together account for 32% of the cases. On the other hand, Vizianagaram, Visakhapatnam (rural) and Srikakulam police units reported less than 1,000 cases last month.

While the number of cases saw a reduction, domestic violence increased. A total of 744 simple hurt cases were reported. Police suggest that most of them are related to domestic violence.

A total of 46 murder cases were reported last month, 150% less than in the corresponding period last year when the entire country was in lockdown.

In terms of road accidents, the state saw 369 fatal accidents and 797 non-fatal accidents in the month of May.

While the month of May saw a sharp dip in crime, June is seeing almost the same amount of increase within the first half of the month. Organised crime saw a huge reduction since the curfew began as there were no murder for gain incidents and only one dacoity case.

Seven instances of robberies were reported which is 50% less than the current month’s cases. Under crimes against women, the state saw 19 rape cases in May which is 94% less than the rape cases reported in the first 14 days of June.

The month of June also saw 342 fatal accidents in the first 13 days which is almost 92% of May’s figure. Cops point out that crimes registered under major categories account for only 25% and curfew violation cases stand as major contributors.