KAMPALA — Uganda registered a 10.2 percent decline in reported crime in 2025, according to the Annual Crime Report launched by Inspector General of Police Abbas Byakagaba at Police Headquarters in Naguru.
The report shows that 196,405 cases were recorded in 2025, down from 218,715 cases in 2024, signalling what police leadership described as steady progress in crime prevention and enforcement.
“In 2025, a total of 196,405 cases were reported to the Police, compared to 218,715 cases in 2024. This represents a 10.2 percent reduction in reported cases,” Byakagaba said during the launch.
Of the total cases reported, 115,301 case files were submitted to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, with 79,291 proceeding to court. Police recorded 24,899 convictions, leading to 31,732 people being sentenced.
“Out of the cases reported in 2025, 115,301 were submitted to the DPP and 79,291 taken to court. A total of 24,899 cases resulted in convictions,” the IGP noted, adding that the figures reflect improved case management and collaboration within the justice system.
Regional crime distribution
The report highlights disparities across policing regions, with Kampala Metropolitan areas dominating the list of high-crime zones.
Kampala Metropolitan Police (KMP) South registered the highest number of cases at 13,950, followed by Rwizi (13,416), KMP North (13,340), North Kyoga (12,728), and KMP East (10,388).
At the district and divisional level, Wakiso Police Division recorded the highest number of cases at 3,177. Other high-reporting areas included Luweero Police Station (3,123), Mukono Police Division (2,880), Tororo Police Station (2,831), and Ntungamo Police Station (2,825).
Fraud and traffic offences decline
Police also reported a decline in fraud-related offences, particularly cases of obtaining money by false pretences, which stood at 8,455.
“Fraud cases have reduced, but public awareness and vigilance remain critical in preventing such crimes,” Byakagaba emphasised.
Traffic-related offences saw a significant drop, with 322,441 cases recorded in 2025 compared to 426,432 in 2024 — a 24.4 percent decrease.
“Regarding traffic-related offences, the Police registered a total of 322,441 cases in 2025, compared to 426,432 in 2024, marking a 24.4 percent decrease,” he said.
Despite the reduction, road safety remains a concern. A total of 26,044 road crashes were reported, including 4,602 fatal crashes, 13,563 serious crashes, and 7,879 minor incidents.
Sustaining the gains
Police leadership attributed the overall decline in crime to enhanced operations, community policing, and public cooperation, but cautioned against complacency.
“We must sustain these gains through continued vigilance, stronger community partnerships, and adherence to the law,” Byakagaba said.
The Annual Crime Report remains a key tool for assessing national security trends and guiding policing strategies across Uganda.