Crime Incidence in Mexico City in 2023
Mexico City has experienced an increase in crime rates during 2023, particularly in the rise of intentional homicides and the perception of insecurity among its residents. Below are the main aspects of this issue.
Increase in Intentional Homicides
In 2023, Mexico City recorded a total of 871 victims of intentional homicide, representing an increase of 9.5% compared to the previous year. This rise indicates a concerning upward trend in this type of crime.
Victimization Rate
According to the 2023 National Survey on Victimization and Perception of Public Safety (ENVIPE), the victimization rate per 100,000 inhabitants in Mexico City was 32,661 for men and 31,178 for women. These figures reflect the extent of violence and insecurity faced by the capital’s residents.
Perception of Insecurity
From March to April 2023, 74.6% of the population aged 18 and over considered living in their state to be unsafe due to crime. Although this figure is statistically lower than in 2021, it still represents a significant proportion of the population feeling threatened by insecurity.
Property Crimes
Vehicle thefts topped the list of property crimes in 2023, with approximately 11,141 reported cases. This type of crime remains one of the main concerns for citizens.
Most Dangerous Areas by Borough and Neighborhood
To identify the most dangerous areas of Mexico City, crime statistics and public safety reports can be considered. Here are some of the most dangerous areas, classified by borough and neighborhood:
- Álvaro Obregón: The Lomas de Plateros and Santa Fe neighborhoods are particularly notorious for high rates of theft and homicide.
- Cuauhtémoc: The Historic Center and Tepito are known for their high incidence of crimes such as theft and assault.
- Gustavo A. Madero: The Cuautepec Barrio Alto and La Villa neighborhoods present high levels of crime, especially theft and homicide.
- Iztapalapa: Neighborhoods such as San Miguel Teotongo and Santa Cruz Meyehualco are known for their insecurity and high incidence of violent crimes.
- Venustiano Carranza: The Morelos neighborhood, which includes part of Tepito, is one of the city’s most dangerous areas.
Peak Crime Hours
Crimes in Mexico City tend to concentrate at certain times of the day, with a higher risk during the night and early morning. The peak crime hours usually are:
- From 8:00 PM to 2:00 AM: Increase in assaults and thefts in public spaces and public transportation.
- From 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM: A peak in vehicle thefts parked in commercial and residential areas.
Conclusion
Mexico City faces serious challenges in terms of public safety, with an increase in intentional homicides and a high perception of insecurity among its residents. Identifying the areas and times of highest risk is crucial to implementing more effective security strategies and protecting the population.
Sources Consulted
- 2023 National Survey on Victimization and Perception of Public Safety (ENVIPE).
- Public safety reports from Mexico City.
- Crime incidence statistics from the Executive Secretariat of the National Public Security System.