MOSCOW. April 13 (Interfax) - Law enforcement agencies have recorded an increase in the crime rate amid the coronavirus epidemic in Russia, but these are individual cases, and there is no need to be hysterical, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.
"As for the rising crime rate, we are naturally recording the whole thing. Mostly, this is being recorded by law enforcement agencies, which are working very hard today and are carrying an additional load. At the same time, it's very important to urge everyone not to draw emergency graphs on the basis of individual cases, even though they are happening in a number of cities. There is no need to be dramatic, although the issue clearly requires more attention," Peskov told the press on Monday.
As to the opinion that the country is falling back into the 1990s, Peskov said, "Danger looks bigger through the eyes of fear; these are hysterical sentiments, which should clearly be avoided."
"This is not an easy period. Of course, a negative impact on incomes is unfortunately unavoidable due to the economic slowdown," he said.
"Seeking to minimize the negative effect, plans are being prepared to support citizens, parents with children, entrepreneurs, micro, small, and medium businesses, and the like, with an emphasis on those who keep their employees," Peskov said.
The government is taking into consideration and analyzing all the numbers and opinions, he said.
"The government is doing its own analysis, as well," Peskov said.
It will take some time to put all measures of support into effect, he said.