Number of crimes including sexual abuse rises in Helsinki in 2024

Number of crimes increased significantly in Helsinki in 2024, said police in a press release on Tuesday.

The growing number of offences mainly comes from increases in fraud, theft and petty theft.

In contrast, some serious violent crime including homicide, attempted homicide and aggravated assault deceased.

Sexual offences reported to the police increased significantly compared to the previous year, partly due to legislative changes related to sexual crimes.

The increase in youth crime has been curbed since 2023, but the overall crime rate remains high.

According to the University of Helsinki’s 2024 Youth Crime Survey, the perceived threat of violence among young people has also risen in Finland.

Criminal proceeds recovered during investigations of economic crime cases totalled EUR 12.67 million, which police considered an excellent achievement.

The Helsinki Police Department has restructured its organisation from the beginning of this year to respond more effectively to the needs of the changing operating environment and the continuously growing demand for police services.

The particular aim is to stop the increase in crime related to children and young people, and to prevent the activities of street gangs and organised crime from expanding.

“We want to meet the expectations of Helsinki residents, which include the rapid arrival of emergency patrols and increased police visibility. We will succeed in this with the help of our skilled personnel, committed partners and more efficient activities,” said Jari Liukku, Police Chief of the Helsinki Police Department.