Crime Rate in Sierra Leone Continues to Worry Authorities

Freetown, Sierra Leone - A Rising Concern

The crime rate in Sierra Leone has continued to rise, with a total of 33,157 cases reported nationwide in 2023, according to the latest crime report released by the authorities.

Regional Breakdown

• The West Area region recorded the highest number of crimes, accounting for 64.0% of all reported cases.
• The North Region came second, with 14.0% of all reported cases.
• The East and South regions trailed behind with 11.0% each.

Violence Against Women and Children on the Rise

• A total of 10,063 cases of violence against women and children were reported in 2023.
• Freetown East recorded the highest number of such cases, followed by Freetown West.

Economic Offences on the Increase

• The report also showed a significant rise in economic offences, including:
  • Smuggling of narcotic substances
  • Counterfeiting of currency
  • Financial scams
• Freetown West recorded the highest number of these cases, followed by Freetown East.

Road Traffic Accidents Claim Many Lives

• A total of 3,953 road traffic accidents were reported in 2023.
• These accidents resulted in:
  • 490 fatalities
  • 1,341 serious injuries

Offences Against the Person on the Rise

• The report also revealed a significant increase in offences against the person, including:
  • Murder
  • Assault
  • Wounding
• Freetown East recorded the highest number of such cases, followed by Freetown West.

Mischief and Public Order Offences Worry Authorities

• The report highlighted a rise in mischief and public order offences, which include:
  • Offensive language
  • Misconduct
  • Wilful exposure

Authority Response

The authorities have expressed concern over the rising crime rate and have vowed to take measures to address the issue. “We are working tirelessly to combat crime and ensure the safety of our citizens,” said a spokesperson for the authorities.

Full Report Available Online

The full crime report is available online at [website URL].