Financial Crime World

Sharpened Crime Rates in Sierra Leone: A Regional Breakdown

Crime Rate on the Rise in Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone has seen a significant increase in crime rates in recent years, with the West Area recording the highest number of cases in 2023. According to the latest crime report, the region saw a staggering 64% increase in reported crimes compared to the previous year.

Regional Crime Rates

Here is a breakdown of the regional crime rates:

  • West Area: 62% (21,222 reported cases)
  • North Region: 17% (5,180 reported cases)
  • East Region: 10% (3,048 reported cases)
  • South Region: 11% (3,275 reported cases)

Offences Against Women and Children

Violence against women and children remains a serious concern in Sierra Leone. In 2023, there were 10,063 reported cases nationwide, with Freetown East recording the highest number of offences at 3,499.

Offences Against Property

Crime against property saw an increase in 2023, with 7,033 investigations conducted by police. Freetown East recorded the highest number of cases at 2,094, followed by Freetown West with 1,980.

Economic Offences

Economic crimes, including smuggling and fraud, also saw a significant increase in 2023, with 3,992 reported cases nationwide. Freetown West recorded the highest number of cases at 1,860, followed by Freetown East with 1,240.

Road Traffic Accidents

Road traffic accidents were a major concern in 2023, with 3,953 reported cases nationwide. Freetown East recorded the highest number of cases at 1,603, followed by Freetown West with 1,305.

Offences Against the Person

Offences against the person, including murder and assault, saw an increase in 2023, with 3,827 reported cases nationwide. Freetown East recorded the highest number of cases at 1,203, followed by Freetown West with 934.

Mischief and Public Order Offences

Public order offences, including mischief and disorderly conduct, also saw an increase in 2023, with 2,451 reported cases nationwide. The South Region recorded the highest number of cases at 841, followed by the East Region with 531.

Call for Increased Vigilance and Cooperation

As the country grapples with rising crime rates, authorities are calling for increased vigilance and cooperation from the public to tackle the issue.