Crime in Madrid rises by 2.3%, with alarming increase in homicides

Crime in the Community of Madrid has grown by 2.3% in the first quarter of 2026. Police unions warn about the rise in homicides and violent crimes linked to gangs.

Crime in the Community of Madrid has experienced an increase of 2.3% during the first quarter of 2026, according to the Crime Balance from the Ministry of the Interior. This increase is particularly reflected in homicides, which have risen by an alarming 60%, as well as in crimes related to brawls and drug trafficking, which have increased by 20.6% and 33.2%, respectively. The situation has generated growing concern among the main police unions, who have criticized the lack of effective response from local authorities. The Spanish Police Confederation (CEP) has directly pointed to the Government Delegate in Madrid, Francisco Martín, and the Chief of Police, Javier Galván, accusing them of being unable to reverse this growing trend towards violence. In their official statement, the CEP highlights that "the types of crimes that are increasing the most are precisely those that generate the greatest social alarm." This transformation in the criminal landscape is notable; a decade ago, traditional property crimes predominated, whereas today there is a rise in organised crime and violent gangs. The Unified Police Union (SUP) has also expressed its concern about this evolution and has requested more resources to tackle these new challenges. According to their representatives, "the National Police needs more means and personnel" to ensure public safety in this increasingly complex context. Furthermore, they have emphasized the urgent need to eliminate current restrictions on state replacement rates that limit local capacity to call for new police positions. José Francisco Horcajo, head of the PLA Union (Unified Local Police), stressed that "the lack of personnel is affecting our ability to respond adequately to this situation," which could lead to an even greater crisis if immediate measures are not taken. With this data on the table, it is clear that both institutions and police forces must work together to address this worrying increase in crime and ensure a safe environment for all citizens.