Crime statistics for 2024 show no decline, with digital crime steadily growing. The number of calls to the police has significantly increased, and demonstrations often required police deployment. The demand for police in East Netherlands is high while staffing shortages persist, necessitating tough choices. This morning, the East Netherlands police statistics were presented to the press.
The call for police remained high. Many in society felt involved in issues in the Netherlands and beyond, expressing their views on topics like climate or war, placing significant demands on police to maintain peace and safety. Furthermore, the phenomenon of fake police officers and the use of explosives in conflicts were notable in 2024.
In 2024, the number of crimes in East Netherlands was 122,337, nearly the same as in 2023, with the solved cases increasing from 27% to 30%.
Busy with People in Distress
With over 5% more reports (26,701), the police in East Netherlands spent considerable time in 2024 dealing with people in distress. When there is acute danger to the person or environment, the police have a duty to respond. They continue to seek solutions for a smooth transfer of these vulnerable individuals to care professionals. The goal is to establish crisis services that work together multidisciplinary.
Police Seizes 35 Million Euros from Criminals
In 2024, the police in East Netherlands uncovered 16 drug labs and 48 cases of drug waste dumping, roughly equal to the previous year. They also identified 173 criminal organizations. This organized drug crime is accompanied by threats and violence, leading to significant undermining effects. Therefore, the police continue to invest heavily in tackling this issue, focusing on identifying key offenders and confiscating criminal assets: 35 million euros in 2024.
Faster Assistance for Victims of Digital Crime
Since 2024, victims of online crime receive faster police response in our region, with officers dispatched to take reports or secure evidence, such as in cases of fraud by fake bank employees. This approach increases the likelihood of apprehending and convicting offenders, and it is now being adopted in other parts of the country.
Reporting is crucial for understanding how criminals operate. In digital crime, there are often many victims of a single perpetrator, leading to substantial damages. This was evident in a case of helpdesk fraud involving credit cards with as many as 157 known victims, possibly more.
The recorded damage from digital crime in East Netherlands in 2024 amounted to 31 million euros.
Long-term Staffing Shortages Lead to Tough Choices
It has long been known that the police will have insufficient personnel in the coming years. This staffing shortage will persist despite measures taken. In light of societal unrest and changing crime, the police are looking to innovate their work, increasingly utilizing modern technology such as drones, robots, or artificial intelligence. In addition to detection and prosecution, prevention and disrupting or stopping criminals by taking websites offline are becoming increasingly important to keep society safe.
Together with all mayors and the Public Prosecution Service, the police are not shying away from tough choices. They are exploring alternative resolution methods (like compensation or mediation) and selectivity in cases pursued for prosecution, aligning with the principles of the government program.
With all this in mind, the police find it essential to stay in contact with all people in East Netherlands, both offline and online. By understanding their concerns, they can actively contribute to peace and safety in collaboration with partners and residents.