There was an absolute increase of 160 crime reports over 2016, however was actually lower than the increase predicted indicating the plateauing of crime reports over recent years, Home Affairs Minister Carmelo Abela said today.

Crime reports had been predicted to increase by 1,500.

Mr Abela was presenting a report called "CrimeMalta Annual Crime Review", alongside criminologist Saviour Formosa.

Speaking about domestic violence reports made to police, the minister said that, while high, each report does not equate to a separate case.  For example one couple going through a separation might file more than one report of domestic violence over a period of a few months.

Mr Abela said the total number of crime reports in 2016 was 17,298.

According to the report, reports of damages and  bodily harm reduced, however domestic violence reports remained high. Reports of fraud and arson, among others, increased

Mr Abela said that one must also keep in mind population increase and tourism figures constantly rising. Despite these, the number of reports was still less than expected.

Theft comprises 51% of the total offences reported to the police. Pickpocketing accounted for the slight rise in offences he said. In addition, Mr Formosa said that crimes are moving more towards those of a personal nature, such as pickpocketing, where thieves invade one's personal space.

Minister Abela explained that people must keep aware of their surroundings and keep watch over their personal items.

The minister, asked about the discrepancy between reported crimes, and the 2,800 arrests made last year, again indicated that not every report results in a separate case, and also added that changes in law require more in depth procedures by the police before persons can be arrested.

The minister also stressed the importance of analysing the statistics released in order to further improve police work.