Kidnappings up 97%, report shows

IRELAND has become a more violent and dangerous place in recent years, much of it due to gang crime.

New figures show kidnappings have doubled, drug and gun crimes have soared and threats of murder have risen.

An analysis of recorded crimes between 2005 and 2009 also records a sharp rise in assaults, harassment and driving offences, such as speeding, dangerous driving and drink-driving.