Accra, Sept. 28, GNA - A crime pattern analysis, conducted by the Community Policing Unit (CPU) of the Ghana Police Service, from January to August 2009 indicated that many young people including students were involved in a number of crimes.

According to the analysis the offences students often engaged in, included; robbery, rape, defilement, fraud, drug abuse, drug peddling, threatening and motor and traffic offences. A statement signed by Superintendent David Eklu of the CPU, in Accra at the weekend, said some of the culprits were innocent children, who were lured into wrong doing by criminals. "The youth particularly students are, therefore, advised to protect and safeguard themselves against acts that constitute crime; or any act that is punishable by law," the statement said. "Students are also advised to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves from falling victims to unscrupulous persons, who may lure them into committing crimes."

The CPU, therefore, asked them to follow preventive measures that would insulate them against crime. The statement advised students not to stay out of their homes or campuses too late in the night and to avoid hanging out with people they did not know or trust. They should resist peer pressure or associate with colleagues who used drugs.

The statement said female students should move in pairs and avoid dark and isolated streets.

"Female students should not accept lifts, food or sweets from people they do not know or trust. "Any student facing any difficulty should seek advice or counselling from their school authorities." The statement said school authorities and parents should monitor their children, provide them with safe environments and approach the Police for assistance.

The CPU seeks to instil a new culture of trust and cooperation between the police and the public.