Sadiq Khan expresses frustration at negative perceptions of London despite new data indicating a significant decrease in homicides. Recent statistics highlight a 14-year low in total killings, marking the lowest rate per population since record-keeping began. The Mayor of London emphasized that the city had the lowest murder rate per capita on record, with fewer homicides among individuals under 25 compared to previous years.
Khan credited the Metropolitan Police for employing technologies such as facial recognition and targeting gang activities, leading to an increase of 1,000 arrests monthly. The latest figures revealed a decrease to 97 homicides in 2025, an 11% drop from the previous year and the lowest number since 2014, even with a population surge of over 500,000 residents. London’s homicide rate stands at 1.1 per 100,000 people, notably lower than rates in cities like New York, Berlin, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Toronto.
The Mayor highlighted the success in reducing serious violence, stating that the efforts will persist to ensure the safety of Londoners. The data indicated a 95% solve rate by Met Police detectives in the past year. Lib Peck, director of London’s violence reduction unit (VRU), echoed positive sentiments, noting the continuous decline in violence levels and record low homicide rates.
Contrary views surfaced from Reform mayoral candidate Laila Cunningham, who criticized the city’s safety status, claiming London was no longer as secure as before. However, the VRU’s extensive interventions prevented over 550,000 young individuals from engaging in gang-related activities and violence during the year. Khan reiterated the effectiveness of addressing both crime enforcement and its root causes in combating criminal activities.