Violent crime is at its highest point for at least eight years following a surge in gang robberies.

New figures released this afternoon show 105 violent crimes took place in the first three months of 2008 — up from 72 for the same period last year and more than at any time since modern Police records begin in 2001.

There were 46 robberies and a further 13 attempted robberies in January, February and March — nearly double the number for the first three months of 2007.

Acting Assistant Commissioner Mike Jackman told a press conference today that groups of up to six young men have been targeting individuals walking alone late at night, often to steal expensive jewellery.

* For the full story, see tomorrow’s Royal Gazette.