Uruguay Sees Rise in Homicides, Drop in Property Crimes in First Half of 2026

Uruguay recorded a 6.6% increase in intentional homicides during the first half of 2026, with 195 cases compared to 183 in the same period of 2025. Despite this rise, the overall homicide rate shows relative stability since 2022, with figures hovering around 180-190 cases annually. The increase was primarily observed between April and June, with earlier months showing lower numbers than the previous year.

Firearms were used in 74.9% of homicides, an 11% increase from the prior year. Canelones department saw a significant jump, from 17 homicides in early 2025 to 30 in early 2026. Montevideo also experienced an increase, from 103 to 114 cases. However, some departments like Durazno and Rivera reported decreases. Notably, these figures do not include crimes committed within prisons.

In Montevideo, specific police districts saw substantial increases. District 18, near routes 8 and 102, encompassing areas like Villa García, more than doubled its homicides from nine to 20. District 16, covering Ituzaingó and Flor de Maroñas, saw cases rise from four to 12. Conversely, District 17, including Casavalle, reported a decrease from 26 to 14 homicides, and District 15 in La Unión dropped from six to two.

“

The increases in homicides were most notable in Canelones, which went from 17 cases in 2025 to 30 in 2026, and in Montevideo, which increased from 103 to 114.

The report also highlighted a concerning 33.3% rise in homicides against children, adolescents, and young people, with eight such cases in the first half of 2026 compared to six in the same period last year. In contrast, homicides within correctional facilities decreased by 30%, from ten to seven. Gunshot injuries rose by 7.4%, from 596 to 640.

On a more positive note, crimes against property generally declined. Robberies fell by 4% (from 8,087 to 7,762), thefts by 7.5% (from 53,154 to 49,187), and stolen vehicles by 8.3% (from 6,943 to 6,379). Cattle rustling saw the most significant drop at 20% (from 427 to 341). Homicides of women due to gender-based violence decreased by 16.7%, from 12 to ten, with homicides by partners or ex-partners remaining stable at eight.

“

As homicides in general increased by 6.6%, homicides against children, girls, and adolescents also increased by 33.3%.