A police chief has stressed that he is “acutely aware” that more work must be undertaken to improve road safety in the north-east.
Chief Superintendent Campbell Thomson is the divisional commander for the area and has prepared a report which will go before Aberdeenshire Council’s communities committee on Thursday.
The paper provides a detailed account of the police’s performance in the region since April.
He wrote: “While the picture appears to be improving in terms of road casualty reduction we are acutely aware that work must continue with partners to improve road safety and reduce the numbers of people killed or injured on our roads.
“We have enhanced innovative initiatives to tackle serious and organised crime, recognising the important balance of protecting the vulnerable and dealing with those intent on causing misery on the streets of our communities.”
However, his analysis found several positives for the region – including reduced numbers of thefts.
He added: “From a violence perspective the recorded figure for robbery has almost halved in comparison with the corresponding figure last year, with a strong detection rate.
“Crimes such as housebreaking and thefts involving motor vehicles have seen further reductions in addition to strong detection rates.”
Mr Thomson added that prevention of domestic abuse “remains a priority” in the coming months – and that the force will work to ensure victims feel they can approach officers with confidence.