Mexico’s daily homicide average fell to 52.4 in December 2025, a nearly 40% drop since President Claudia Sheinbaum took office in October 2024.
MEXICO CITY: Mexico’s daily murder rate has fallen by nearly 40% since President Claudia Sheinbaum took office in October 2024, according to government officials.
Preliminary statistics show the daily homicide average dropped to 52.4 in December 2025 from 86.9 in September 2024.
“It is the lowest number since 2016,” Sheinbaum said at a press conference alongside security officials.
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She credited the success to her government’s security strategy and close collaboration between federal and state authorities.
The announcement comes amid pressure from the Trump administration to crack down on drug cartels and domestic criticism over insecurity.
The national murder rate for 2025 was 17.5 per 100,000 people, the lowest since 2015.
Homicide figures are often revised upwards when formally released by the national statistics agency INEGI.
Opposition parties have harshly criticised the president’s security strategy, highlighting political violence.
According to NGO Common Cause, 56 politicians were killed last year, including seven sitting mayors.
Security analysts note lethal violence remains concentrated, with seven states accounting for over 50% of homicides.
“Mexico needs strong local police forces, with support and resources,” said opposition Senator Mario Vázquez.
Critics also argue forced disappearances have risen, masking the country’s violence.
The national registry reported a record 14,765 disappearances in Sheinbaum’s first year, a 16% annual increase. – Reuters
