Crime trends show rising vehicle theft in Argentina and falling robbery rates in Bogotá

Recent crime reports from Argentina and Colombia highlight differing trends in theft and robbery. In Argentina, data from Ituran Argentina’s Vehicle Theft Indicator (IRV) shows that vehicle thefts on public roads in the Buenos Aires metropolitan area rose significantly in July, reaching 95.65% of all cases, up from 73.91% in June.

Private cars accounted for 60.29% of these thefts, followed by 4x4 pickups and motorcycles at 16.18% each. Armed robberies also saw a shift toward public spaces, with over 97% occurring on the street in July.

In contrast, the Metropolitan Police of Bogotá reported a 16% decrease in theft against persons during 2026 compared to the previous year. This reduction represents over 13,000 fewer cases. Significant declines were noted in several localities, including Ciudad Bolívar (37%), Usme (33%), and Tunjuelito (30%).

Authorities in Bogotá reported the recovery of 2,445 cell phones, 1,017 motorcycles, and 733 vehicles, alongside 4,013 arrests related to theft. The police attributed the decrease to preventive and operational strategies deployed across the capital.