Uganda’s Crime Rate Declines by 4.1% as Police Strengthen Response Measures
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Abas Byakagaba, has revealed a 4.1% decline in crime rates across the country, according to the Annual Crime Report 2024 launched at the Uganda Police headquarters in Naguru.
The report indicates that out of every 100,000 people, 476 were victims of crime in 2024.
To enhance crime response and community policing, the Uganda Police Force will deploy 18 police officers at every sub-county under a new central policing model.
Byakagaba emphasized the importance of collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Judiciary, local councils, the public, and security agencies, to maintain law and order.
"It is our resolve that in 2025, my leadership will continue to focus on expanding anti-crime infrastructure to ensure a professional and people-centered police force for a safe and secure society," Byakagaba stated.
He also urged the public to report cases, as this helps shape policing strategies.
While the overall crime rate declined, some crime categories showed mixed trends. Domestic violence cases dropped by 4%, from 14,681 cases in 2023 to 14,073 in 2024. However, robberies increased by 5%, rising from 7,772 in 2023 to 8,163 in 2024. Economic and corruption crimes also rose by 1.6%, with 13,132 cases reported in 2024 compared to 12,924 in 2023.
AIGP Tom Magambo, Director of the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), highlighted ongoing efforts to combat fraud, corruption, and organized crime. He stressed that public vigilance and cooperation remain key in addressing these offenses.
The Uganda Police Force has pledged to strengthen crime-fighting infrastructure while emphasizing community participation. The deployment of more officers at the sub-county level is expected to improve rapid response and intelligence gathering.
With crime rates fluctuating, the police leadership remains committed to modernizing policing strategies and enhancing security to ensure a safer Uganda in 2025 and beyond
