GWYNEDD South District crime performance has remained strong over the previous 12 months with previous reductions being sustained.

District Inspector Dewi Jones said: “It is very encouraging to see reductions in acquisitive crime especially in domestic burglar and vehicle crime, theft and shoplifting offences.”

He explained that criminal damage offences have shown a slight increase, with nine additional crimes being reported over the 12 month period: “These figures show that the Dwyfor and Meirionydd areas are amongst the safest areas within Wales and the United Kingdom.”

Inspector Jones went on to express his concern at the continuing rise in violent offences in both the home and public spaces, with the vast majority of these being alcohol related.

“Domestic violence should not be tolerated. It is important that residents in Dwyfor and Meirionydd are able to feel safe in their home or whilst out socialising.”

Further focus will be given to the threat, risk and harm in and around sexual offences and the rise in this crime category.

Pointing out that work is ongoing through the Safer Neighbourhood Teams, he added: “There is clear concern with regards to this area and particularly the risks to young people from child sexual exploitation and the exposure to sexting and sextortion offences.

“It is important that we as the policing team of Gwynedd South were able to achieve the highest outcome rate throughout north Wales. We continue to work closely with our communities in order that we can fully understand the problem and seek solutions and to ensure that Dwyfor/Meirionydd remains a safe place to live, work and visit.”

Parents are also being encouraged to attend an internet safety evening at Ysgol Glan y Môr, Pwllheli, on 10 May, presented by Dewi Owen, the school community police officer and members of the North Wales Cyber Crime Unit.