In the last month of 2022, there was a continuation of the improvement in security indicators, with the overall results for the year being positive compared to 2021. However, crimes of kidnapping for ransom experienced a significant increase. For example, there was a decline in:
- Car thefts by 23.4%.
- Theft incidents by 19.7%.
- Homicides by 13.5%.
- Traffic accidents and the resulting fatalities and injuries, by 32.5%, 14.3%, and 32%, respectively.
In contrast, kidnapping for ransom defied this positive trend, marking an increase to 50 incidents compared to 17 in 2021, which is an increase of 194%. This percentage indicates a serious concern, suggesting the presence of organized and armed gangs engaging in this growing criminal activity. It is important to note that we have only included kidnapping incidents reported to security forces and acknowledge that there are several cases that were not reported, with resolutions being reached between the victim's family and the kidnappers.
