Cities in Europe with the Highest Number of Burglaries

Burglaries remain one of the most common types of crime in many European cities. This phenomenon causes significant damage not only to the material well-being of citizens but also to their sense of security. In this article, we will examine the cities where the highest number of such crimes are recorded and analyze the factors contributing to their prevalence.
1. Paris, France
Paris, as the capital of France and one of the most visited cities in the world, faces high crime rates, including burglaries. The main reasons for this phenomenon include:
• High population density and a large number of tourists.
• The presence of neighborhoods with a low standard of living.
• The activity of criminal groups specializing in home burglaries.
Criminals often break into apartments through windows, especially on the ground floors. Cases of lock-picking using modern technology are also common.
2. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is famous for its cultural attractions but is also known for its high crime rate. Burglaries are quite common here, facilitated by:
• A constant flow of tourists.
• High demand for rental housing, leading to many temporarily vacant apartments.
• The activity of organized criminal groups.
Most crimes occur at night when residents are away or asleep, as well as in tourist areas where many apartments are rented on a short-term basis.
3. London, United Kingdom
London, the largest city in Europe, is also not immune to home burglaries. Key factors include:
• High property prices, attracting criminals.
• Social inequality leading to increased crime in certain areas.
• Modern burglary techniques used by professional criminals.
In some parts of the city, such as Newham and Southwark, crime rates are above average, and modern technologies allow criminals to break into even smart locks.
4. Brussels, Belgium
Brussels, the political center of Europe, also suffers from high crime rates. The reasons include:
• A constant influx of migrants.
• Insufficient police patrols.
• The presence of criminal groups involved in home burglaries.
Criminals often use fake keys or break into homes through poorly secured windows and doors, especially in poorly lit areas.
5. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam, despite its developed economy and high standard of living, has not escaped the problem of home burglaries. Key factors include:
• High property prices attracting criminals.
• Liberal laws complicating the fight against crime.
• The presence of organized criminal groups.
Criminals often target old buildings where security measures are less developed, making it easier to break doors or windows.
6. Rome, Italy
Rome, a historic city attracting millions of tourists annually, also provides a favorable environment for criminals. The main reasons include:
• A vast number of tourists reducing the effectiveness of police control.
• The activities of mafia groups.
• An insufficient number of surveillance cameras.
Residents of Rome often fall victim to home burglaries, particularly in old buildings where locks and doors are less resistant to break-ins.
7. Athens, Greece
Athens suffers from high crime rates, exacerbated by the economic crisis. The main reasons include:
• High unemployment rates.
• A large number of abandoned and vacant houses.
• Insufficient police presence in certain areas.
Criminals often operate in groups, targeting homes whose owners are away for long periods.
Methods of Protection Against Burglaries
Despite high crime rates in some cities, there are effective ways to protect property:
1. Alarm systems and surveillance cameras – modern technologies allow for quick responses to break-in attempts.
2. Reinforcing doors and windows – armored doors and impact-resistant glass make break-ins more difficult.
3. Collaboration with neighbors – mutual control and awareness of suspicious individuals help prevent crimes.
4. Using light timers – creates the illusion of homeowners being present.
5. Caution on social media – posts about trips can attract the attention of criminals.
Burglaries remain a serious problem in major European cities. Crime growth is driven by social and economic factors, a large number of tourists, and insufficient police activity in some areas. However, the use of modern security technologies and careful attention to property protection can significantly reduce the likelihood of falling victim to burglary. Residents of large cities must be aware of the risks and take precautionary measures to protect their homes.