The number of reported cases of domestic violence jumped by 25 per cent in 2009 over 2008.

A total of 602 cases were reported last year compared to 477 in the previous year. 576 of the cases allegedly took place in Malta and just 26 cases were reported in Gozo. Fifty-nine cases involved children but the vast majority of victims, 467, were women.

A spokesman for the Home Affairs Ministry said the increase did not necessarily mean an increase in domestic violence, but greater awareness by the public that such cases should be reported.

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