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Burglaries at businesses and homes in the Region of Murcia have been falling over the last decade. Figures from the Interior Ministry's Crime Report indicate a significant drop in burglaries across the Region of Murcia in the first nine months of 2025. Businesses recorded 3,273 break-ins, a 15.8% decrease from 3,886 in the same period of 2014.

 

Residential burglaries also fell, with 2,519 cases compared to 3,015 that year. Police sources attribute this to the decline in cash usage, with more payments made via cards or mobiles, alongside the increased installation of alarm systems and better tracking of items like phones via IMEI numbers.

 

This pattern reflects fewer traditional property crimes overall. Thieves often check homes in advance and avoid those without valuables, while alarms prompt swift police response. Most business break-ins occur after hours, with no intent to harm individuals. Adrián Rodríguez, general secretary of the Unified Police Union (SUP) in Murcia, observes: "A scenario is emerging in which classic crimes against property seem to be decreasing, but violence against people is increasing in frequency and intensity."

 

That being said, robberies involving violence or intimidation rose by 4.1%, reaching 1,669 incidents over the period. These are typically opportunistic acts, such as stealing phones or purses in crowded areas where perpetrators can escape unnoticed. Police describe those responsible as non-professionals seizing easy chances, often in busy public spaces, nightlife settings involving alcohol or drugs, or tense social situations.

 

Notable cases underline the shift. In November, 89-year-old Carmelina from Puente Tocinos died in hospital after two men snatched her neck chain in a robbery, an event not yet reflected in the statistics. Days earlier in Cartagena, a man suffered a throat injury during a cash point withdrawal but survived; the assailant was arrested shortly afterwards.

 

The SUP connects the rise to "greater social conflict and an increase in high-tension situations in the public sphere," alongside more reports of impulsive assaults and sexual offences due to heightened awareness.

 

Rodríguez praises police measures, including increased patrols, targeted deployments and effective investigations by Judicial and Scientific units.

 

The union calls for additional officers, proactive planning, sufficient resources and recognition of policing as a high-risk profession.

 

Image: Holger Kraft/Pixabay