Swansea Crime Rate February 2024 | Monthly Statistics

Swansea's crime rate in February 2024 reached 7.8 per 1,000 residents, placing it 9.9% above the UK average of 7.1. This figure reflects a persistent challenge for the city, which has long grappled with higher-than-average crime rates due to its status as a major urban centre with a mix of coastal, industrial, and commercial areas. Violence and sexual offences dominated the crime picture, accounting for 38% of all incidents, with a rate of 3.0 per 1,000—20% above the UK average. Anti-social behaviour followed at 12.5%, while shoplifting and public order offences also showed significant spikes, both exceeding UK averages by over 60%. These patterns align with Swansea's urban character, where high-density living and frequent public interactions may contribute to such crimes. The seasonal context of February—a winter month with low outdoor activity and a pre-spring lull—likely influenced some trends, though the city's overall crime profile suggests structural factors, such as socioeconomic conditions and policing strategies, remain central. The increase in violent offences may be partly explained by the end of school holidays, which can temporarily disrupt community routines and increase opportunities for crime. Meanwhile, the relatively low rates of burglary and theft from the person—33% and 100% below UK averages, respectively—suggest that targeted efforts in those areas may be effective. However, the sharp rise in possession of weapons and shoplifting highlights areas requiring further attention.

February saw a dramatic 77.8% increase in possession of weapons, rising from 9 to 16 incidents. This spike contrasts sharply with a 50% decline in robbery, which fell from 10 to 5, suggesting shifting criminal activity patterns. Violence and sexual offences remained the most prevalent category, accounting for 38% of all crimes, with a 20% increase over the UK average. Shoplifting also surged by 17.6%, reaching 234 incidents, nearly double the UK rate. Meanwhile, bicycle theft dropped 42.9% to 12 cases, possibly linked to reduced outdoor activity during winter. The data highlights a notable shift from property crimes to violent offences, with violent crimes making up 38% of the total, compared to 30% in January. These trends may reflect seasonal factors, such as the pre-spring lull influencing offender behaviour.

Swansea's crime rate in February 2024 rose 3.6% from January's 7.5 to 7.8 per 1,000 residents, marking a slight upward trend. Daily crime averaged 68 incidents, reflecting the city's ongoing challenges with public safety. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 128 residents, underscoring the frequency of incidents in a densely populated urban area. This monthly exposure rate is consistent with Swansea's status as a major coastal and industrial hub, where high foot traffic and economic activity may contribute to persistent crime patterns. The population-scaled perspective highlights that while the rate is above the UK average, localized factors such as seasonal lulls and community dynamics play a role in shaping these figures.