SEXUAL OFFENCES AND SUICIDES RISE DESPITE DROP IN FESTIVE CRIME

Article By: TEBOGO MOKOTO

Botswana recorded mixed crime and road safety trends during the 2025 festive period, with sharp declines in some offences but worrying increases in others.

Statistics comparing the 2024 and 2025 festive holidays show armed robbery cases dropped by more than half, while murder and vehicle theft also declined. However, stock theft rose by 22 percent.

More concerning are sharp increases in sexual offences, with rape cases rising by 35 percent and defilement by 50 percent. Suicides also surged by nearly 80 percent during the period.

On the roads, total accidents and fatal crashes decreased, but road fatalities increased slightly. While speeding and unlicensed driving fell, offences such as failure to obey traffic lights, mobile phone use while driving, and drunk-driving rose sharply.

Authorities say the figures highlight progress in some areas, but serious concerns around sexual violence, mental health and road discipline during the festive season.