HYDERABAD, DEC 29   :    Telangana’s Director General of Police (DGP) Ravi Gupta disclosed on Friday that overall crime in the state has risen by 8.97 per cent in comparison to the preceding year.

Addressing the media at the Police headquarters after releasing the Telangana State Police Annual Report 2023, Gupta stated that the assembly elections transpired smoothly, without any complications, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the police and media.

Gupta emphasized that the crime rate across the state has increased by 8.97 per cent, resulting in 2,13,121 registered cases this year. Notably, cybercrime has surged by 17.59 per cent compared to the previous year. The total property loss amounted to approximately Rs 151 crore, with the recovery of property valued at Rs 81 crore, translating to a recovery rate of about 53.82 per cent.

Furthermore, Gupta mentioned a 1 per cent reduction in road accidents, along with a 41 per cent increase in corporal punishments and a 39 per cent rise in life imprisonment cases. Zero FIRs numbering 1108 were registered this year, with 1,38,312 cases filed under IPC sections. In the context of rape cases, 73 cases were reported, resulting in 84 individuals sentenced to life imprisonment.

Gupta detailed that 1,360 drug cases were registered under NDPS this year, reflecting a 15.6 per cent increase compared to the previous year. The seizures included 2,52,60 kg of ganja, 1240 ganja plants, and the arrest of 2583 individuals. Additionally, 1877 cases related to SC and ST were registered, highlighting the stringent actions taken by the Telangana Police against drugs, in alignment with government directives.

The DGP highlighted the establishment of an anti-narcotic bureau to combat drugs, resulting in the arrest of 182 individuals in 59 drug cases. Furthermore, 175 repeat drug peddlers faced PD Act charges, and counselling was provided to 536 drug consumers.

Gupta lauded the success of the emergency response system, dial 100 and dial 112, with around 16 lakh calls received during the year and an average response time of 7 minutes. Social media complaints numbered approximately 1 lakh 38,000, and steps are being taken to integrate petitions and requests through Prajavani or Prajapala into the existing petition management system for expedited resolutions.

On the technological front, Gupta commended Telangana Police’s leadership in the country, citing numerous initiatives that have garnered national awards and accolades. The state has been recognized as an advanced leader in technology implementation, boasting over 11 lakh installed cameras, including more than one lakh added this year.

Gupta affirmed the commitment to increase the number of cameras in the coming days, highlighting the significant impact of technology on the department’s performance, particularly in early detection efforts.(UNI)