A total of 507 such crimes were reported in 2022, marking a drop by 127 cases – the largest dip in murder rates in recent years.
One of the primary reasons for the decrease is believed to be the end of the pandemic, which reportedly led to conflicts being resolved in different ways, rather than escalating to deadly violence.
Additionally, gang-related conflicts have also scaled down, as criminal organisations shifted away from turf wars and turned their focus towards the more profitable cooperation.
Another factor contributing to the dent in murder rates is the significant improvement in crime detection, which currently stands at 99.2% across the country.
Crimes committed even 30 years ago are being uncovered and solved, thanks to advancements in forensic technology and investigative techniques, leading to a higher rate of criminal convictions and serving as a deterrent for would-be murderers.
Experts emphasise that the current trend is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the police force in Poland, and it highlights the importance of preventative measures and the effectiveness of modern forensic techniques in solving cold cases.
The majority of murders committed in Poland are believed to be the result of family conflicts or disputes between friends.
Most perpetrators, especially of the crimes referred to as “kitchen murders,” are caught under the influence of alcohol and with a knife in their hand.
Save for manslaughter in a heat of passion, potential killers are discouraged by the possibility of spending the rest of their life in prison without a change for conditional release, according to the spokesperson for the Polish police force.
(pjm)
Source: Rzeczpospolita
