Despite the sharp increase in Malta’s population the overall crime rate has gone down from 45 cases per 1,000 in 2004 down to 30 in 2024. This trend emerged from an annual report compiled by Professor Saviour Formosa.

Its conclusions might have raised eyebrows in certain quarters, especially in areas which in recent years experienced a large influx of foreigners amid complaints of an increase in issues of public order and disturbances. However, judging by the findings of this report such impression seems to have no grounds as crime in general is in decline, with the exception of certain offences such as pickpocketing which in 2024 were on the rise.

With a decline from 45 crimes per 1,000 individuals in 2004 to 30 in 2024, the statistics show that the islands are very safe in terms of crimes per 1,000 persons. Notably, the actual 16,662 reported crimes were much lower than anticipated, despite population increase over the years suggesting a predicted crime rate of 25,820 (based on 2004 statistics) or 21,592 (based on 2014 data).

The homicide rate in 2024 stood at 0.7 per 100,000 persons, lower than the 1.7 recorded in 2004, 2012, and 2022, though slightly up from 0.4 in 2023. Violent crimes also saw a decline to 344 cases in 2024. While theft has increased in certain categories, particularly entertainment-related thefts and pickpocketing, which rose from 405 cases in 2023 to 650 in 2024, this highlights the ongoing need for public awareness and vigilance. Reports of domestic violence continued their yearly increase since 2007, reaching 2,225 cases, with psychological harm accounting for 78% of these.

Additionally, grievous bodily harm due to physical force saw a rise. Despite some category-specific increases, significant declines were recorded in computer misuse, damages, and fraud. Armed robberies and vehicle thefts were the lowest ever recorded. Reports of residential theft remained low at 513 cases, the second lowest ever, following 2023’s record low of 479 cases.

Arson also remains among the lowest levels recorded in the past 20 years. Geographically, the RISC model identified Mdina as having a crime rate more than five times the national average( due to its small size compared to the number of visitors), while San Ġiljan, Mosta, Floriana, and Valletta fell within the 2x to 5x category.

However, most localities now fall within or below the national rate, with 17 localities in the slightly higher (1x to 2x) category. Gozo saw a notable 23% decrease in crime reports, with the lowest theft figures recorded in the past 20 years. As crime trends evolve, the data underscores the importance of continued vigilance and public awareness to sustain these positive developments