Swiss burglaries in 2024 increase by 11% again

Analysis of published data shows an alarming increase in property crime. In this article, we take a closer look at the trend in the number of thefts (burglaries and thefts by stealth) in Switzerland, the cantons and categories most affected, and the points to watch out for.

Burglary statistics in 2024: cantonal differences in Switzerland

The 2024 crime statistics show clear regional differences in burglary offences by canton. In 2024, 20 Swiss cantons recorded a further increase in the number of burglaries. The following graph shows the increase in burglaries per 1,000 inhabitants.

Burglary statistics in 2024: cantonal differences in Switzerland

Access to source: Swiss Federal Statistical Office (2024): Swiss burglary statistics 2024

 

In 2024, most cantons once again recorded significant increases in burglary offenses. Figures per 1,000 inhabitants rose particularly in Nidwalden (+93.8%), Glarus (+56.3%), Solothurn (+29.5%), Lucerne (+24.3%), Fribourg (+23.8%) and Schaffhausen (+23.4%). Notable increases were also recorded in Uri (+19.9%), Bern (+19.7%), Schwyz (+18.7%), Jura (+17.1%), Basel-Stadt (+17.3%), Appenzell Innerrhoden (+27.7%), Thurgau (+12.1%), Zurich (+11.0%) and Vaud (+11.1%).

Slight to moderate increases were recorded in Aargau (+8.4%), Obwalden (+6.0%), St. Gallen (+5.6%), Geneva (+4.9%) and Basel-Landschaft (+3.0%).

Only six cantons reported declining figures: Graubünden (-29.8%), Zug (-29.6%), Appenzell Ausserrhoden (-28.0%), Valais (-15.4%), Ticino (-15.1%) and Neuchâtel (-1.6%).

These figures show the extent to which the burglary situation has evolved differently from one region to another, and highlight the importance of targeted, regional prevention measures.

Burglary protection in 2024: Securitas Direct's conclusion

The increase in the number of thefts clearly shows how important it is to protect your property and home effectively. For house and apartment owners in particular, now is the time to check and improve existing security measures. Modern security technologies such as alarm systems, motion detectors and surveillance cameras are essential here to effectively prevent burglaries.

Collaboration with local authorities and security services is equally important in order to respond optimally to these challenges. The challenges facing Switzerland's security services are becoming increasingly complex. This is precisely where Securitas Direct comes in with its proven 24/7 security system. As experts in security technology and intervention services, Securitas Direct ensures that you feel safe at all times - even when no one is at home.

Theft trends in Switzerland: Significant increases

Development of common theft types switzerland

In 2024, 46,070 burglaries and break-ins were reported in Switzerland, an increase of 11.2% on the previous year. This corresponds to an average of 126 cases per day, compared with 114 cases in 2023. On average, there is a crime in these categories every 11 minutes.

This trend concerns both private individuals and businesses, and makes it necessary to reinforce protection measures. The latest figures from crime statistics 2024 show significant increases in several categories of theft. Here you will find an overview of the main trends, together with recommendations on how to protect yourself:

Burglary (+15%) and theft by smuggling (+3%)

Both of these related categories show increases. Only one theft in five (20%) in this category can be solved. Even so, the clearance rate is linked to the use of security systems, such as motion detectors and surveillance cameras, which can both deter and reliably identify the perpetrators. It is becoming increasingly difficult to prove thefts committed without security systems.

Pickpocketing (+2%), snatching (+11%), theft by deception (+2%)

The increase in public theft calls for heightened vigilance, particularly in public places and at events. Citizens should secure their valuables and keep a close eye on their surroundings.

Shoplifting (+7%)

Retailers face the challenge of securing goods even more effectively. Here, modern technologies such as RFID chips and camera surveillance play a decisive role in prevention and rapid identification of perpetrators.

Vehicles (+27%)

Vehicle burglaries (+26.8%) and vehicle thefts (+9%) also rose particularly sharply. Only thefts from (unlocked) vehicles fell (-7.4%). Vehicle owners should invest in robust, modern anti-theft systems to protect their property effectively against this growing danger.

Swiss crime statistics 2024: rise in all offences

Crime development switzerland

Swiss crime statistics for 2024 once again show an alarming increase in crime. In 2024, the Swiss police recorded a total of 563,633 breaches of the penal code (PC). This corresponds to an increase of around 8% comparde to 2023. In addition to the sharp rise in digital offences (+35%) and serious violent offences (+19%), there was also an 8% increase in property crimes.

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