Zambia Police Release Annual Crime Statistics for 2023
The Zambia Police Service has released its annual crime statistics for the year 2023, revealing a total of 78,193 cases recorded countrywide, marking a slight increase from the previous year’s figures of 76,422 cases in 2022.
According to the report, the Copperbelt Province recorded the highest number of cases with 24,060, followed closely by Lusaka Province with 22,042 cases. Meanwhile, Muchinga Province recorded the lowest number of cases with 2,106 reported incidents.
The statistics also show a notable increase in arrests and convictions compared to the previous year. In 2023, a total of 52,088 arrests were made, representing a significant rise from 45,549 arrests in 2022. Similarly, there were 44,800 convictions secured in 2023, compared to 40,476 convictions in the previous year.
The report further outlines various categories of crime, including murder, rape, theft, robbery, and burglary. Murder cases decreased slightly from 881 in 2022 to 838 in 2023, while rape cases also saw a decrease from 246 to 232. However, theft of motor vehicles and stock theft witnessed an increase compared to the previous year.
Property-related crimes remain a concern, with properties valued at K3,625,807,553 stolen in 2023. However, efforts by law enforcement led to the recovery of properties valued at K117,012,229, while properties worth K10,595,825 were reported damaged.
Rae Hamoonga, the Police Public Relations Officer, highlighted the ongoing efforts of the Zambia Police Service in combating crime and ensuring the safety and security of citizens. He emphasized the importance of community cooperation in reporting crimes and providing assistance to law enforcement agencies.
