The newly released annual police crime report for 2025 shows a notable decline in child-related crimes across the country, even as authorities raise concerns about the growing number of juveniles coming into conflict with the law.
According to the report, total cases involving children dropped to 8,064 in 2025, marking a 14.3% decrease compared to 2024. This continues a steady downward trend from 14,489 cases in 2022 and 10,741 in 2023.
Police attribute the decline to increased awareness campaigns, community interventions, and strengthened child protection systems. Cases of child neglect, which have consistently formed the largest share, reduced significantly from 6,505 in 2022 to 3,023 in 2025.
Other offenses also registered declines or remained relatively stable, including child abuse, trafficking, and abduction. However, authorities caution that the figures remain high enough to require sustained intervention.
Despite this progress, the report highlights a critical and growing concern: juvenile involvement in crime.
A total of 3,308 children under the age of 18 were arrested in 2025. Of these, 2,908 were boys and 400 were girls. This has sparked renewed debate about the factors driving young people into criminal activity.
Child rights advocates point to poverty, neglect, school dropout, and exposure to violence as key contributors. They are calling for stronger rehabilitation systems rather than punitive approaches.
“These children are not just offenders—they are also victims of circumstance,” one child protection officer noted. “We must prioritize guidance, counseling, and reintegration.”
Authorities say many of the juveniles are held in remand homes and rehabilitation centers, where efforts are made to provide education and life skills. However, gaps in resources and overcrowding remain significant challenges.
Meanwhile, serious concerns persist over cases involving missing children (2,092), child desertion (1,205), and child trafficking (555). The report also recorded 51 infant deaths and 118 child abductions in 2025.
Police have pledged to strengthen collaboration with communities, schools, and social services to both prevent crime and support at-risk children.
As the country registers progress in reducing crimes against children, the spotlight is now firmly on addressing juvenile delinquency—ensuring that young offenders are given a second chance and a path toward a better future.
