To counter the opposition YSR Party’s criticism that Vijayawada had become crime capital of Andhra Pradesh, state government on Tuesday released crime statistics to debunk the argument. Opposition leader while talking on the call money in Assembly dubbed Vijayawada as the crime capital. The same has been brought to the notice of President Pranab Mukherjee as well in a memorandum. So, state government today thought it should place facts and figure before the public.

Unlawful offenses and crimes have witnessed a significant decline in Vijayawada, said a note released from the officer the Adviser, communications, government of Andhra Pradesh.

” The crime statistics appear to be at odds with the claims made by the opposition that said the city has become a crime capital. Compared to 2014, crimes and unlawful activities in Vijayawada have largely come under control, improving the law and order situation.” the note said.

“While, the number of crimes recorded in 2014 was 7,230, the crimes registered so far this year are just 5,735. In the case of domestic violence, such as 498-A, 2,808 cases were registered in 2014; in 2015, 2,146 cases have been registered. In cases of sexual assault, 57 cases were registered last year, while this year they have fallen to 40 ,” the note elaborated.

There has been a decline in kidnapping cases as well compared to last year. While 38 cases were registered last year, only 20 cases were registered in 2015. Pick pocketing cases fell to 19 from 47. Meanwhile cheating cases have come down to 364 from 393. 2,152 cases of extortion, theft and retail theft have been registered previous year. This number has reduced to 1,972 cases this year.