The country is seeing an increasing number of criminal cases. The number of criminal incidents increased by more than 650 last year compared to the previous year. This is according to the Royal Bhutan Police’s Crime Statistics. According to the police, the number of cases increased after the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions were lifted.
3,501 criminal incidents were reported in the country last year. In 2021, police recorded 2,818 cases.
Thimphu recorded the highest number of cases at 1,462 last year followed by Chhukha and Paro.
According to police, fewer cases were reported during the pandemic due to lockdowns and restrictions.
Meanwhile, battery and substance abuse continue to be the leading criminal offences in the country. Last year 778 battery cases were reported. Police said most of those involved in battery cases are youths.
Similarly, 603 substance abuse cases were reported last year. According to police, physical abuse, larceny and burglary were among the top five crimes in the country last year.
According to the RBP, they are intensifying patrolling by deploying more people to reduce criminal incidents in the country. The police will also open a dedicated drug unit to curb drug abuse.
Kinley Dem
Edited by Sonam Pem
