First Quarter 2024 Crime Statistics Show Mixed Trends in Zambia

The Zambia Police Service has released its first quarter 2024 crime statistics, revealing both increases and decreases in various criminal activities compared to the same period in 2023.

A total of 18,219 criminal cases were recorded nationwide during the first quarter of 2024, marking a slight increase from the 17,486 cases reported in the corresponding period in 2023. Lusaka province accounted for the highest number of cases at 30.25%, followed by the Copperbelt and Southern provinces.

Arrest rates saw a decrease in the first quarter of 2024, with 9,354 arrests made, representing a rate of 51.34%, compared to 9,674 arrests and a rate of 55.32% in 2023.

Notably, murder cases were highest in the Copperbelt province, while Lusaka topped the list for aggravated robbery and theft of motor vehicles. Southern province recorded the highest number of stock theft cases.

The total value of stolen property in the first quarter of 2024 amounted to K288,468,980, an increase from K113,952,457 in 2023. However, the value of recovered property decreased slightly, as did the value of damaged property.

These statistics paint a nuanced picture of crime trends in Zambia, indicating areas of concern as well as potential successes in law enforcement efforts. 

Rae Hamoonga, the Police Public Relations Officer, provided the data and emphasized the ongoing efforts to address crime and ensure public safety.