Overview and Relevance
In 2025, Mexico reported 18,407 homicide cases from January to September, marking a decrease of 4,348 compared to the same period in 2024. This translates to a 19.1% reduction. Despite this decline, homicide rates in 2025 are still higher than those observed before the “war on drug trafficking.”
Historical Context and Comparison
In 2016, there were 16,507 homicides, and in 2015, the figure was 13,346. Compared to these years, homicide rates in 2025 have increased by 11.51% compared to 2016 and 37.92% compared to 2015.
Since 2023, homicide numbers have been decreasing. In 2023, there were 22,650 homicides, lower than the 23,325 cases in 2022 and the 25,442 cases in 2021, which were the highest in a decade.
State-by-State Breakdown
Leading States in Homicide Cases:
- Guanajuato: With 2,084 homicides from January to September 2025, Guanajuato leads in homicide cases. This number is a decrease of 193 compared to 2024, representing an 8.5% reduction.
- Chihuahua: Chihuahua follows with 1,371 homicides, a decrease of 179 compared to 2024, equivalent to an 11.5% reduction.
- Baja California: Baja California reported 1,344 homicides, a decrease of 508 compared to 2024, representing a 27.4% reduction.
- Sinaloa: Sinaloa saw an increase from 481 homicides in 2024 to 1,302 in 2025, a rise of 821 cases or 170.7%.
- Estado de México: The State of Mexico experienced a decrease from 1,758 homicides in 2024 to 1,208 in 2025, a reduction of 550 cases or 31.3%.
President’s Remarks
On a positive note, President Claudia Sheinbaum highlighted the daily decrease in homicides between September 2024 and September 2025, noting a reduction of 27 homicides per day, or 32%.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What is the total number of homicides in Mexico from January to September 2025? A: There were 18,407 homicides.
- Q: How does the 2025 homicide rate compare to previous years? A: Although there has been a decrease, homicide rates in 2025 are still higher than those observed before the “war on drug trafficking.”
- Q: Which states have the highest homicide rates in 2025? A: Guanajuato leads with 2,084 homicides, followed by Chihuahua (1,371), Baja California (1,344), Sinaloa (1,302), and the State of Mexico (1,208).
- Q: How has the homicide rate changed since 2023? A: Since 2023, homicide numbers have been decreasing, with 2023 recording 22,650 homicides, lower than the 23,325 cases in 2022 and the 25,442 cases in 2021.
