On Sunday, Israel Police Commissioner Insp. Gen. Yohanan Danino presented data regarding the crime rate from the past eight months. According to the report, 2012 has thus far seen a five percent decrease in crime, compared to the same period last year. A substantial decrease was seen in the Arab sector. Since the submitted data only reflects those cases that reach the police, Danino said he would like to see more reporting, which would mean that the general public has greater faith in the police system and thus is more willing to seek its assistance. Danino also said 2012 has seen a sharp increase in smartphone theft, mainly in central Israel. During the weekly Cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commended the police work that led to the decrease in crime. "This is a very welcome change," Netanyahu said. "The willingness to enter Arab communities is revolutionary. I thank the policemen, whose work is measured in results, and there are results. The continued handling of this issue is important for the benefit of all of Israel, especially the Arab community. It is important that Israeli citizens know that we have a very good police force that is effectively fighting crime," said Netanyahu. Public Security Minister Yitzhak Aharonovitch said, "The personal security of each citizen is very important. The police deal with racism, violence and disturbances of the public order, and are doing an excellent job. I thank the prime minister for his support and backing, and the police inspector general and his people for all their good work." Israel Police Insp. Gen. Danino said, "Correct investment in Israel's police is in the nation's best interest. The police's work of enforcing the law, fighting crime and maintaining the peace contributes to the shaping of Israeli society and to securing its future."
