Updated: 12/31/2012 05:38 | By Channel NewsAsia

Govt concerned about youth crime rates: S Iswaran

SINGAPORE: Second Home Affairs Minister S Iswaran said the government is concerned about crime rates involving youth.

He pointed to an increasing number of those involved in loanshark and harrassment activities, as well as drug abuse.

The number of new drug abusers for example, increased by some 45 per cent last year compared to 2010.

Mr Iswaran said the government, community and family are essential in the support system to tackle the worrying trend.

He was speaking at the grand finals of the Delta League held at Jalan Besar stadium on Sunday evening.

The initiative uses soccer as a platform to reach out to youths at risk and educate them about undesired consequences of crime.

The youths also participate in a series of self—improvement activities, including free tuition classes.

— CNA/xq

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