The total number of crimes reported in Thimphu reduced drastically this year. While over 1000 crimes were reported from January to July 1 last year, Thimphu police recorded just over 700 cases this year. The police officials said the reduction is possibly due to various measures and restrictions taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Entertainment centres were closed in March to discourage public gatherings and it was made mandatory for all businesses to close by 7 pm in April. These restrictions and measures have actually resulted in lower number of crimes. Larceny, battery and drugs are the top three crimes in Thimphu.
Larceny cases have reduced from nearly 250 cases last year to 120 cases in the same period this year. Battery cases have reduced from 148 cases in the first six months last year to 142 cases so far, while only 132 drug cases have been reported till July 1 this year. Last year, 163 drug cases were reported during the same period.
The Officer Commanding of Thimphu Police Station, Gyembo Penjor said most crimes are committed in the middle of night or early morning, and with the COVID-19 pandemic, people are restricted to loiter in groups or late nights and hold gatherings. He said, this in a way prevented people from committing crimes.
Meanwhile, crime mapping shows that most crimes are committed in the core town areas.
Kinley Dem
