ZimStat Reports Sharp Increase in Crime Across Zimbabwe

Crime levels in Zimbabwe rose sharply during the final quarter of 2025, increasing by 12.1 percent compared to the previous three months, according to newly released figures from the Zimbabwe National Statistical Agency (ZimStat), with analysts linking the surge to mounting economic challenges.

Police statistics show that 426,946 criminal cases were recorded between October and December 2025, up from 380,727 incidents reported in the third quarter of the year.

During the same period, authorities charged a total of 367,557 suspects, the majority of whom — about 88 percent — were male. The national charge rate climbed to 2,421.5 per 100,000 people, compared to 2,136.4 recorded earlier in the year.

Men continued to account for a significantly higher proportion of offences, with a charge rate of 4,438.7 per 100,000 people, nearly eight times higher than the female rate of 557.8.

The latest increase extends an upward trend observed throughout 2025, following a 3.5 percent rise in reported crime during the second quarter.

Theft remained the most frequently reported offence in the last quarter, accounting for 37,680 cases, followed by assault and threats with 29,975 incidents, while drug-related crimes stood at 11,926. Young adults represented the largest group among offenders.

Regional statistics revealed notable disparities, with Harare recording the country’s highest vulnerability rate at 6,195.3 per 100,000 people — more than double the national average of 2,812.7. Bulawayo, Masvingo and Matabeleland South also registered crime levels above the national benchmark.

Separate data on prison admissions released by ZimStat indicated that most newly admitted inmates were aged between 20 and 29, with admission figures declining progressively among older age groups.

Common offences among new prisoners included theft, assault, drug-related crimes, burglary and robbery without firearms. Among men aged 65 and above, rape and assault were the leading offences resulting in imprisonment.

ZimStat director-general Tafadzwa Bandama said crime statistics play a crucial role in guiding criminal justice planning and policy formulation.

She cautioned that rising criminal activity carries significant social, economic and psychological consequences for communities, stressing the need for evidence-driven strategies to address the growing trend.