Crime in Lyon has been steadily increasing since the early 2020s, hitting a record high in 2025. Statistics reveal a significant rise in incidents occurring within the city: 60,323 in 2021 versus 71,147 in 2025. In just four years, this increase reaches 18%, confirming a trend that has accelerated during the last year of the current mayor, Grégory Doucet.
Violence, Theft, and Burglary on the Rise
Among the crimes increasing in Lyon are violent assaults and robberies. Assaults have risen by 12%, while robberies with violence have jumped by 20%. Another indicator that stands out is theft from campers – committed in or around vehicles.
Vehicle thefts – which have nearly doubled in four years, going from 7,567 incidents in 2021 to 11,927 in 2025, marking a spectacular increase of 58%.
Pickpocketing also shows a more moderate yet real increase, reaching 4,611 incidents last year. The only silver lining in this picture: motorbike thefts have seen a significant drop, with a decline of 59%. As for car thefts, they remain relatively stable, at just over two per day.
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Video surveillance and police presence: the majority's defense
In response to these criticisms, the municipal majority stands by its record and highlights the measures taken in terms of security. The deputy for security, Mohamed Chihi, has notably published an article on LinkedIn to explain these figures and broaden the debate. The municipality especially points out the enhancement of the video surveillance camera network. According to the city hall, the city now boasts 12.7 cameras per square kilometer, positioning Lyon among the best-equipped cities in France.
The majority, supported by the socialist Sandrine Runel, also promises to strengthen resources for the next term: increasing the municipal police force to 400 agents, creating mobile neighborhood units, and installing 90 additional cameras.
A HUGE spike in drug trafficking
The issue of drugs particularly highlights the tension surrounding security in Lyon. Trafficking is expected to triple between 2021 and 2025, while simple usage has increased by 74%. According to some elected officials, more and more underage individuals are becoming involved in these networks. To tackle this phenomenon, the municipality is advocating a preventive approach with a 500,000 euro plan aimed at young people aged 16 to 25. The opposition, on the other hand, is calling for a stronger police presence at dealing points, especially in sensitive areas like Guillotière.
Beyond the political debates, theSurveys confirm the importance of the topic for the residents of Lyon. According to an Ifop-Fiducial survey conducted in November 2025, security is now the top priority for 52% of Lyonnais. This figure is even higher among young adults, with 59% of 18-24 year-olds placing this issue at the top of their concerns.
Source: Lyon Capitale