I THOUGHT I would take the opportunity this week to update you about crime in Brent over the past few months. In general terms, violence is down seven per cent and property crime is down 10 per cent since April 1.

While it is harder for my officers and staff to reduce crime happening, as a lot depends on personal awareness, building security – such as closing windows when it is hot to stop opportunist burglars and so on – what I can say is that when a crime is committed, Brent’s detection rates are the highest in London.

As the Borough Commander, those crimes where someone is willing to use violence, either in an assault or to obtain property, cause me more concern than others if they go unaddressed.

An example from last week was where a 15-year-old boy committed three robberies on victims by threatening them with an axe over a period of a few days.

While I realise this is the type of incident that can grab headlines and cause real concern, I stress that no physical injury was caused to any victims.

We responded quickly after recognising a trend and posted officers to key areas and key times.

A youth has been arrested and charged and is appearing in court.

Our detection rates for all crime remain the highest in London and have been for over a year. If you commit a crime in Brent, my message is that we will get you.

By telling such stories, I am aware of the thin line between making you aware in order to make you safe and causing concern.

The fact remains that the cowards, bullies and thieves who live among us are few when you look at a population of 300,000-plus people.

Robbery is down by 32 per cent, which is 130 less offences than last year.

Burglary, however, is up 11 per cent, with 45 offences since April. This appears to be a more favourable crime at the moment. Access is being gained through rear doors and windows being left open.

There is less my officers can do if the community we serve don’t help themselves.

The chances of being burgled are extremely low, but they are more likely if you ‘invite’ criminals or opportunist thieves in through an open door.

Please be mindful and help us to help you.

As ever, if you have any information, we will act. You can call us at Crimestoppers (0800 555 111), 101, or your local Safer Neighbourhoods Team accessed via the Met Police Website (www.met.police.cu.uk). In an emergency, call 999.

For daily updates and information about what is happening in Brent, you can follow us on Twitter at @MPSBrent.

Thank you for your continued support.