Introduction
In 2024, burglary rates in Switzerland increased slightly again. According to police crime statistics, the number of burglaries and sneak thefts rose by approximately 6% nationwide. The developments vary regionally: some cantons continue to experience significant increases, while others have successfully reduced crime rates. This article examines cantonal differences, analyzes causes and risk factors, and provides practical recommendations for prevention.
1. Nationwide Overview: A Continuing Problem
Following the rise in 2023, the upward trend continued in 2024, though at a moderate level. Nearly 48,000 burglary and sneak theft incidents were recorded. Notably, perpetrators are increasingly organized and strike in shorter intervals, affecting both urban and rural areas.
2. Cantonal Developments in Detail
2.1 Cantons with Significant Increases
The following cantons are particularly affected:
- Nidwalden: +47%
- Glarus: +34%
- Solothurn: +21%
- Lucerne: +18%
- Fribourg: +17%
- Schaffhausen: +16%
Lucerne remains a hotspot: with over 1,650 recorded burglaries, another high value was reached. Authorities continue to report organized gangs and call for increased international police cooperation.
2.2 Cantons with Decreases
Other cantons successfully reduced burglary rates:
- Graubünden: –22%
- Zug: –21%
- Appenzell Ausserrhoden: –19%
- Valais: –12%
- Ticino: –11%
- Neuchâtel: –2%
These regions benefit from prevention strategies, modern surveillance technology, and increased police presence.
3. Causes of Regional Differences
3.1 Geography and Demographics
- Border-adjacent cantons and urban centers are particularly vulnerable.
- In sparsely populated areas such as Graubünden, the risk of detection for perpetrators is higher.
3.2 Police Strategies and Prevention
- Mobile advisory units, networked alarm systems, and increased patrols continue to be effective.
- Cantons like Zug and Graubünden increasingly use intelligent motion detection systems on private property.
3.3 Seasonal Fluctuations
- Burglaries mainly occur in autumn and winter between 4–8 PM.
- Tourist areas experience higher risks during holiday periods.
4. Perpetrator Profiles and Methods
4.1 Origin of Perpetrators
Many offender groups come from Southeastern Europe, South America, or North Africa, acting mobile and sometimes using forged documents and rental vehicles.
4.2 Methods
- Pry tools and simple break-in methods remain common.
- In cities, perpetrators often exploit unsecured balconies or easily accessible windows.
5. Prevention Measures and Recommendations
5.1 For Private Individuals
- Secure doors and windows with certified locking systems.
- Simulate presence (e.g., light and TV simulators).
- Strengthen neighborhood networks.
5.2 For Municipalities
- Establish neighborhood security zones.
- Offer information campaigns and advisory days.
- Provide subsidies for technical security measures.
5.3 For Businesses
- Install access control and video surveillance.
- Train employees to observe suspicious activity.
- Foster collaboration with security companies.
6. Police Initiatives
6.1 National Campaigns
The Swiss Crime Prevention (SKP) continues campaigns like “Safe at Home.” Apps such as Alertswiss provide information about risks and real-time warnings.
6.2 International Cooperation
Police and border authorities intensify collaboration with Europol and Interpol. Controls are particularly strengthened at hotspots such as Chiasso and Basel.
7. Case Examples 2024
- Lucerne, February 2024: An international gang was apprehended after more than 25 burglaries. The perpetrators used social media to target victims.
- Glarus, Spring 2024: A series of burglaries was stopped early through increased neighborhood patrols and preventive measures.
8. Media Coverage and Public Perception
Burglaries remain an emotionally distressing issue. Older people, in particular, report fear and sleep disturbances. Media coverage raises public awareness but also increases the perceived need for security.
9. Outlook for 2025
Authorities expect a moderate increase to continue, influenced by international factors such as economic conditions and migration. At the same time, smart home technologies, AI-supported security solutions, and networked surveillance systems are expected to strengthen prevention in the long term.
Conclusion
The 2024 burglary figures demonstrate that prevention and vigilance remain essential. Regional differences show that security requires collaboration between citizens, police, policymakers, and modern technology. Cantons with successful strategies can serve as models for ensuring safe homes in the future.