Crime Surge in Damascus Deepens Public Fear and Erodes Trust in Authorities

Crime Surge in Damascus Deepens Public Fear and Erodes Trust in Authorities
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Damascus is witnessing a sharp rise in crime and violence amid a growing sense of insecurity in areas under the control of the transitional government. According to recent data from Numbeo, a global database tracking crime and quality of life, Syria’s crime index has reached 72.5%, with 64% of residents fearing verbal abuse and over 67% worried about theft or burglary. Corruption and bribery levels were also reported at more than 61%.

A legal expert familiar with the public prosecution office said that theft accounts for about 40% of reported crimes in the capital, followed by random killings and kidnappings for ransom. Drug trafficking has also expanded, driven by weak oversight and widespread lawlessness. The source attributed the surge in violence to the proliferation of unregulated weapons, particularly among young men, and to public displays promoting aggression, such as slogans calling for vengeance.

A social researcher, who requested anonymity for security reasons, described fear as “a daily reality” for Damascus residents. She noted that violent incidents, including stabbings and robberies, occur almost every day and that authorities appear incapable of restoring order. She warned that frustration with ineffective institutions has led some citizens to take justice into their own hands, with violence now spreading to schools.

Meanwhile, a local decision to close shops at 9 p.m. has heightened concerns of night-time thefts due to the lack of active patrols. Experts warn that Syria is facing its highest crime rate in nine decades, with deepening insecurity likely unless firm measures are taken to control weapons and reestablish the rule of law.