Crime Rates in Lisbon Plummet: A 10-Year Low Revealed!

Crime statistics in Lisbon have shown a remarkable decline in 2024, marking the second-largest drop in the past decade. According to data from the Public Security Police (PSP), reported crimes in Lisbon decreased by 12.6%, with serious and violent crimes falling by 10.4%. The total number of crimes reported reached 28,147, the third-lowest figure in ten years, only surpassed during the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021.

The PSP's provisional data, revealed exclusively by the Diário de Notícias, indicates a significant trend across the Lisbon district, where overall crime decreased by 8.9%. This includes a 1.4% drop in violent crimes. Authorities suggest that a notable reduction in alcohol-related driving offenses contributed to this decline, likely due to decreased police activity in the first half of the year. Additionally, increased police visibility and operations in the second half resulted in fewer street robberies and physical assaults involving weapons.

Contrary to claims made by some politicians, including Lisbon Mayor Carlos Moedas, who expressed concerns about rising violent crime, the data reflects a different reality. In a recent interview, Moedas noted a genuine worry over increasing violent crimes affecting public safety. However, previous reports from the PSP indicated a stagnation in violent crime rates despite an overall drop in crime.

During the 157th anniversary of the Metropolitan Command of Lisbon, Commander Luís Elias highlighted a 9.4% decrease in general crime when comparing the first ten months of 2023 and 2024, with only a slight 0.2% decrease in serious violent crime, indicating a plateau in this category.

This comprehensive overview of crime trends in Lisbon demonstrates a positive shift towards public safety, challenging the narrative of increasing violence in the city.