Overview
This page provides a data-driven overview of crime and safety in Messina, in the Sicily region. Based on official 2023 statistics, Messina is moderately safe compared to other Italian provinces, ranking 45 out of 106 with a safety score of 6.5/10.
Below you will find details on thefts, violent crimes, organized crime, drug-related offenses, and accidents, along with answers to common questions about safety in Messina.
Crime and Safety
The province of Messina ranks 45 out of 106 for safety according to our data, with a safety score of 6.5. There were a total of 2712.208 official reports of crime per 100,000 inhabitants in the province in 2023. This is in line with the average number of reported crimes per 100,000 inhabitants across all Italian provinces. This suggests that the crime rate in Messina is typical for Italian provinces.
Thefts and Robberies
In the province of Messina, there were 20 instances of thefts with dexterity (thefts committed with special skill, superior to that normally used by the common thief), 3.674 instances of snatch thefts (thefts committed by someone who takes possession of another's movable property by snatching it from the person's hand or body), 94.02 car thefts, and 62.457 home burglaries per 100,000 inhabitants in 2023.
Below is an overview of how these types of theft compare with the average across all Italian provinces:
Thefts with dexterity are in line with the average. This suggests that the rate of thefts with dexterity in Messina is typical for Italian provinces.
Snatch thefts are in line with the average. This suggests that the rate of snatch thefts in Messina is typical for Italian provinces.
Car thefts are in line with the average. This suggests that the rate of car thefts in Messina is typical for Italian provinces.
Home burglaries are in line with the average. This suggests that the rate of home burglaries in Messina is typical for Italian provinces.
Violent Crimes
In the province of Messina, there were 11.52 instances of violent crimes (homicides and sexual assaults) per 100,000 inhabitants in 2023. This is in line with the average number of violent crimes per 100,000 inhabitants across all Italian provinces. This suggests that the violent crime rate in Messina is typical for Italian provinces.
Organized Crime & Drug-related Crimes
In the province of Messina, there were 17.869 instances of extortions, 2.839 instances of money laundering, and 54.441 drug-related crimes (such as dealing, production, etc.) per 100,000 inhabitants in 2023.
Extortions are in line with the average for provinces in Italy. This suggests that the rate of extortions in Messina is typical for Italian provinces.
Money laundering instances are in line with the national average. This suggests that the rate of money laundering in Messina is typical for Italian provinces.
Drug-related crimes are in line with the average amongst Italian provinces. This suggests that the rate of drug-related crimes in Messina is typical for Italian provinces.
Mafia Activity
The mafia has a significant presence in Messina, particularly with the influence of the Romeo-Santapaola clan. This clan holds power in the city, with close ties to Cosa Nostra in Palermo and control over illicit affairs. The mafia landscape in Messina involves various criminal entities, with the province maintaining a dominance of mafia groups. The mafia in Messina is intertwined with the Romeo-Santapaola clan, which conducts business and criminal activities in the region. The Dia reports that most of the mafia clans in Messina, except one, are under the influence of the Catania-based Romeo-Santapaola family. The mafia control in Messina is highlighted by the continuous evolution of the criminal landscape, with the city being a hub for various criminal entities.Accidents
In the province of Messina, there were 14 instances of fatal and permanent disability accidents per 10,000 employees, and 2.437 road accident deaths per 10,000 residents in 2023. Workplace accidents are in line with the national average average. This suggests that the rate of workplace accidents in Messina is typical for Italian provinces.
Road accident deaths are in line with the national average. This suggests that the rate of road accident deaths in Messina is typical for Italian provinces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Messina safe to live?
Messina is generally a safe city for expats to live, but it has a moderate crime rate due to mafia activity. The majority of crimes in Messina are related to mafia operations, which can be a concern for visitors and residents alike. However, the city has a strong police presence and various safety measures in place to ensure the well-being of tourists and residents. Petty theft and scams can occur in tourist areas, but overall, Messina is considered a safe city for expats to live, especially during the day. It is advisable to take normal precautions at night and avoid leaving valuables unattended.Is Messina safe for tourists and travelers?
Messina is generally a safe city for tourists, with a low occurrence of violent crimes. Petty theft and scams can occur, but overall, the city is considered safe. It is advisable to take normal precautions such as keeping valuables secure, avoiding dark areas at night, and being vigilant about personal safety. Additionally, Taormina, a popular tourist destination known for its ancient Greek theater and stunning views of the Mediterranean, is also a safe place to visit. Visitors can feel comfortable walking around during the day and night, but it is always recommended to exercise caution and be aware of surroundings. Overall, Messina and Taormina are safe destinations for tourists, with a low risk of crime and a high level of security.Discover
Recommended Tours in Messina
Crime and Safety of Provinces Nearby
