SOUTH YORKSHIRE RECORDS SIGNIFICANT REDUCTIONS IN KEY CRIMES

Published 29 October 2025 at 4:30pm

South Yorkshire has seen notable reductions in key crime categories over the past year, according to the latest police recorded crime figures published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) for the year ending June 2025.

The data reveals a 38% decrease in firearms offences, with recorded incidents falling from 273 to 168.

This is a sharper decline than the regional average of 32% and the national average of 16%. The drop reflects ongoing efforts by South Yorkshire Police to disrupt organised criminal networks and remove illegal weapons from circulation. The force’s armed crime team, which expanded its remit in late 2024, has played a pivotal role in investigating firearm-related burglaries and discharges.

Residential burglary also saw a substantial reduction of 11%, aligning with national trends but outperforming the regional decrease of 5%. This improvement is attributed to targeted policing and community engagement initiatives aimed at prevention and early intervention.

Knife crime, a persistent concern across the UK, decreased by 2% in South Yorkshire. While modest, this decline is part of a broader regional and national downward trend. South Yorkshire Police’s participation in Operation Sceptre, a bi-annual national week of action, led to the recovery of 245 knives and 87 arrests. The force also conducted over 50 school visits and engaged with retailers to reinforce responsible sales practices in the second week of action last year.

Commenting on the figures, Kilvinder Vigurs said: “These reductions are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our officers and partners across South Yorkshire. Tackling serious violence and burglary remains a top priority and we are encouraged by the progress made.

“However, we know there is more to do, and we remain committed to building safer communities through proactive policing and strong local partnerships.”

While the overall crime rate (excluding fraud) in South Yorkshire fell by 3%, matching the regional average, the area also saw increases in sexual offences and drug-related crimes. These rises are understood to reflect improved reporting and proactive enforcement, rather than a surge in offending.