London Mayor Sadiq Khan has expressed his dismay at the negative portrayal of London despite recent data showing a significant decrease in homicides.
Newly released statistics indicate that the total number of killings in London has reached a 14-year low and now stands at the lowest level per capita since records have been kept. Khan emphasized the contrast between the pessimistic views of some individuals and the positive reality reflected in the data.
He highlighted that in the past year, London recorded the lowest murder rate per capita on record, the fewest homicides among individuals under 25 this century, and one of the lowest homicide numbers in almost 30 years. Khan attributed this success to the Metropolitan Police’s utilization of technology such as facial recognition and targeted operations against gangs, resulting in an additional 1,000 arrests per month.
The latest figures reveal a total of 97 homicides in 2025, marking an 11% decrease compared to the previous year and the lowest count since 2014, despite London’s population growth of over 500,000 during that period. London’s homicide rate currently stands at 1.1 per 100,000 people, notably lower than rates in cities like New York, Berlin, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Toronto.
Khan emphasized the positive impact of these efforts, stating that fewer lives have been lost and families spared from tragedy. He affirmed the city’s commitment to enhancing safety through persistent measures to combat serious violence.
The data also showed that Metropolitan Police detectives achieved a 95% solve rate in the last year, demonstrating their efficiency in addressing criminal cases.
Lib Peck, director of London’s violence reduction unit (VRU), echoed Khan’s sentiments, emphasizing the significant decrease in violence and homicides in the city. Although acknowledging the need for continued efforts to address safety concerns and counter negative narratives, Peck praised the consistent progress made in reducing violence.
These developments come in response to recent criticism by mayoral candidate Laila Cunningham, who claimed that London’s safety had deteriorated. Cunningham’s remarks contrast with the data showing record-low homicide levels and a continuous decline in violence in the city.
The VRU’s proactive interventions, totaling over 550,000 last year, aimed at preventing young individuals from involvement in gangs and violence have contributed to the overall decrease in crime rates.
Khan reiterated the effectiveness of London’s strategy, emphasizing the city’s dual approach of being tough on crime while addressing the underlying causes of criminal behavior.