Theft and kidnappings up but overall crime falls

Theft and kidnappings became more common in the 12 months to the end of September, despite an overall 7% reduction in crime levels.

The latest CSO figures show the annual number of recorded crimes fell below 250,000 for the first time in many years in the third quarter of 2013.

There were decreases in 12 of the 14 main offence categories.