Lombardy, the economic and cultural engine of the country, reflects a complex picture in terms of crime and perception of safety. While some provinces show improvement in objective data, challenges related to petty crime, cybercrime, and the feeling of insecurity among citizens persist.

In this article, we analyze the trend of crime in 2024, with a provincial overview and a look at the main issues perceived by the population.

Crime Statistics by Province in 2024

According to the 2024 Crime Index developed by Sole 24 Ore, the Lombardy provinces show significant differences in terms of reports and types of crime.

Milan: the paradox of the big city

With over 230,000 reports, Milan confirms itself as the province with the highest crime rate in Lombardy and in Italy. The predominant crimes are thefts, robberies, and frauds, especially in central areas and more densely populated zones. However, video surveillance projects and the increase in patrols contribute to improving the perception of safety.

Pavia: increase in reported crime

Pavia is in second place in Lombardy, with an increase in crimes compared to previous years, ranking 19th in the national ranking. Of particular concern are home burglaries and online fraud.

Bergamo and Brescia: focus on predatory crimes

These provinces record average crime rates, ranking respectively 38th and 44th in Italy. Thefts represent the main problem, even though they are decreasing thanks to the close collaboration between citizens and law enforcement.

Como and Lecco: impact of tourism

Como (31st place) and Lecco (69th place) see an increase in crimes related to tourist flows, such as thefts and pickpocketing. However, Lecco stands out for a lower level of crime, with 9,956 reports in 2024, equal to 2,984 reports per 100,000 inhabitants.

Mantua: crime under control

With a lower position in the ranking (73rd place), Mantua confirms one of the safest provinces in Lombardy, despite the increasing incidence of computer fraud.

Types of Emerging Crimes

• Thefts and robberies: Prevalent in large cities like Milan.
• Cybercrimes: Increasing everywhere, particularly in less urbanized provinces.
• Crime related to tourism: Thefts in the tourist areas of Como and Lecco.

Perception of Security among Citizens

The perception of safety does not always reflect objective data. According to an ISTAT 2022-2023 report, about 76% of Italians feel safe walking in their area at night. In Lombardy, however, the perception varies significantly:
• Urban areas like Milan: Safety is one of the main concerns for 70% of citizens, influenced by incidents of theft and robbery.
• Smaller provinces: Residents of Mantua and Lecco feel generally safer compared to those in Milan and Pavia.
• Demographic groups: Women, the elderly, and residents in poorly lit and peripheral neighborhoods perceive greater insecurity.

Factors that improve the perception of safety include:
1. Increased public lighting.
2. Visible presence of law enforcement.
3. Urban redevelopment interventions.

How to Improve Security in Lombardy

To address the challenges of crime and improve the perception of security, an integrated approach is necessary:
• Advanced technologies: Implement video surveillance and real-time monitoring systems.
• Collaboration between citizens and authorities: participatory security projects to strengthen trust.
• Targeted interventions: Plan specific actions to combat the most frequent crimes in individual provinces.

Conclusions

The trend of crime in Lombardy highlights both positives and negatives: while some provinces improve, others face persistent challenges. Improving urban safety and reducing the gap between real data and citizens' perception requires constant commitment, targeted investments, and close collaboration between institutions and local communities.

Only in this way can Lombardy continue to be not only an economic engine but also a model of safety and livability.