London experienced a notable decline in homicides across June, July and August, according to early figures from the Mayor of London’s office.
The data indicates that overall killings across all age groups have fallen by a quarter compared with the same stage last year, dropping from 78 to 58.
The figures also highlight a reduction in youth violence. Ten under-25s have been killed so far this year, compared with 26 during the same period in 2024.
Teenage homicides have halved, falling from nine last year to four.
The mayor’s office also confirmed there were no under-25 homicides recorded during the school summer holidays, a period associated with increased risks of violence.
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan praised the collaborative approach of police and local partners, saying:
“The summer months are traditionally a very challenging time of year with young people more at risk of exploitation and violence, but through London’s Violence Reduction Unit and the Met Police we’ve been working incredibly hard with partners across the capital to provide support and help.”
The Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley credited the work of officers and staff for the progress achieved. He said:
“Thanks to the efforts of the thousands of hardworking Met officers and staff, our sustained crackdown on violent crime is working. Homicide is at a 10-year low, violent incidents in which people are injured are down by a fifth, proportionally lower than any other UK city, and firearms discharges are less than half the level they were seven years ago.”
Sir Rowley continued:
“That’s because we’re proactively targeting dangerous offenders and dismantling organised crime groups, while safeguarding those at risk of exploitation. As a result, less people are being killed and injured and our city is safer. We’re not complacent and we will never stop the fight against serious violence. One senseless death is one too many.”
While campaigners have welcomed these figures many have complained due to the rise in shoplifting and phone theft have increased.
Criticism also remains over the future of policing in the capital. Budget cuts are expected to result in the loss of 1,700 Met officers and staff, alongside the removal of safer schools officers, the withdrawal of dedicated Royal Parks teams and the closure of nearly half of police station front counters.
Those working closely with young people have expressed concern about how such decisions may impact efforts to prevent violence.
