HARARE, March 30 (AGCNewsNet) – Zimbabwe recorded a sharp 12.1% increase in crime during the fourth quarter of 2025, highlighting growing social and economic pressures, according to new data released by the Zimbabwe National Statistical Agency.

The report, based on figures from the Zimbabwe Republic Police Crime Report and Disposal System, showed that total offences rose to 426,946 between October and December 2025, up from 380,727 recorded in the previous quarter.

The spike follows an earlier 3.5% increase in the second quarter, when reported cases climbed to 321,640 from 310,876, pointing to a sustained upward trend in criminal activity.

The most common offences included theft, which accounted for 37,680 cases, followed by assault and threats at 29,975, and drug-related offences at 11,926. Authorities noted that males made up the overwhelming majority of offenders.

In total, 367,557 individuals were charged during the period, with men accounting for 88% of cases. The overall charge rate rose to 2,421.5 per 100,000 people, compared to 2,136.4 in the third quarter. Male offenders recorded a significantly higher rate of 4,438.7 per 100,000 population, nearly eight times that of females at 557.8.

Crime levels varied across regions, with Harare recording the highest vulnerability rate. The capital posted a crime rate of 6,195.3 per 100,000 people—more than double the national average of 2,812.7. Other provinces exceeding the national average included Bulawayo, Masvingo Province and Matabeleland South.

A separate ZimStat report on prison admissions indicated that most offenders were young adults, particularly those aged between 20 and 29, with incarceration rates declining steadily among older age groups.

The data also showed that theft, assault, drug-related offences, burglary and robbery without firearms were the most common crimes among prisoners. Among males aged 65 and above, rape and assault were the leading causes of imprisonment.

ZimStat Director-General Tafadzwa Bandama said the rise in crime reflects broader societal challenges, including economic hardship and rising stress levels.

She noted that increasing incidents of theft, robbery, sexual offences, drug-related crimes and murder have had far-reaching impacts on communities, causing emotional, psychological and financial strain.

Bandama emphasised that crime statistics are essential for shaping policy and guiding law enforcement strategies, adding that data-driven interventions will be critical in addressing the rising trend and improving public safety.

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