The statistics tell one story, the politicians tell another. London Mayor Sadiq Khan has claimed vindication for his "public health" approach to crime as new data reveals the capital’s homicide rate has dropped to its lowest level since 2014. The figures stand in stark contrast to the "crime wave" narrative often pushed by critics.

In 2025, the Metropolitan Police recorded 97 homicides, a significant drop from the peak of 153 in 2019. Crucially, youth violence has plummeted; homicides involving victims under 25 fell to 18, compared to 69 just eight years ago. "London is now one of the safest global cities in the West," Khan declared.

The "Public Health" Strategy

The Mayor credits the turnaround to the Violence Reduction Unit (VRU), which treats knife crime not just as a policing issue, but as a disease cured by education and opportunity. By funding youth clubs and intervention programs, the city has interrupted the cycle of violence before it reaches the blade.

• The Political Battle: The data is a direct rebuttal to the Reform Party and Conservative critics who have labeled London a "no-go zone." "The evidence tells a different story from what the politicians would have you believe," Khan said. "We are liberal, diverse, and safe."
• The Global Context: Compared to US cities of similar size, London’s murder rate remains a fraction. However, the perception of safety—driven by viral videos of phone snatches—remains Khan’s biggest hurdle.

Beyond the Numbers

While the drop in deaths is a triumph, the Met Police acknowledges that "low-level" violence and theft remain high. The challenge for 2026 is to translate the success in preventing murder to the streets where citizens still fear for their phones.