As Africa enters 2026, fresh crime index rankings have drawn attention to rising security challenges across parts of the continent, highlighting 10 countries with the highest crime levels.
According to africa.businessinsider.com, across Africa, the type and intensity of crime vary widely by region, reflecting local challenges, governance, and socio-economic conditions.
Some countries face high rates of urban crime, while others are grappling with armed conflicts, political instability, or piracy.
South Africa tops the list with the highest crime rate in Africa, driven largely by violent crimes and property offences, particularly in major cities like Pretoria and Pietermaritzburg.
Other nations, like Somalia and Libya, are plagued by terrorism, militia activity, and political instability, making everyday life unpredictable and often dangerous. Below is a list of the nations with the highest crime indexes:
1 South Africa ( 74.5)
With the highest crime index in Africa at 74.5, South Africa faces significant challenges, including violent crime and property offences. Safety remains a concern, particularly in urban centres like Pietermaritzburg and Pretoria.
2 Democratic Republic of the Congo (66.7)
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has a crime index of 66.7 and a low safety index of 33.3. Armed conflicts in eastern regions, petty crime, and political instability contribute to the country’s security challenges.
3 Nigeria (66.2)
Nigeria records a crime index of 66.2 and a safety index of 33.8. Widespread issues include armed robbery, kidnappings, and cybercrime. Safety can vary greatly between regions, with northern areas often facing heightened risks due to insurgent activity, requiring careful travel planning.
4 Cameroon (65.7)
Cameroon has a crime index of 65.7 and a safety index of 34.3. Urban areas report petty theft, burglaries, and occasional violent crime, while border regions are affected by separatist conflicts.
5 Angola (65.5)
Angola, with a crime index of 65.5 and a safety index of 34.5, faces high levels of property crime, armed robberies, and occasional violent incidents. Security is particularly precarious in Luanda and other large cities.
6 Namibia (63.8)
Namibia records a crime index of 63.8 and a safety index of 36.2. While it is more stable than some neighbours, property crimes, armed robberies, and petty theft remain common in urban centres.
7 Somalia (62.5)
Somalia has a crime index of 62.5 and a safety index of 37.5. The country faces ongoing security threats, including terrorism, piracy, and clan-based conflicts.
8 Mozambique (61.0)
Mozambique records a crime index of 61.0 and a safety index of 39.0. Violent crime, including armed robbery and gang activity, is prevalent in urban areas.
9 Zimbabwe (60.4)
Zimbabwe, with a crime index of 60.4 and a safety index of 39.6, sees high levels of property crime, petty theft, and occasional violent incidents, particularly in Harare and Bulawayo.
10 Libya (55.8)
Libya has a crime index of 55.8 and a safety index of 44.2. Political instability and ongoing armed conflict make large parts of the country extremely dangerous. Kidnappings, armed attacks, and militia activity are common.
