The police predict an increase in thefts in the Nizhny Novgorod region.

      April 24, 2026 13:17 Incidents NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" - Maria Orlova Nizhny Novgorod police have managed to reduce street offenses and thefts; however, a traditional increase is expected during the spring-summer period. This was reminded at a press conference at the NIOC by the head of the public order organization department of the regional Main Directorate of the Ministry of Internal Affairs Alexander Azovtsev and the deputy head of the criminal investigation department Alexey Koshelev, as reported by NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" correspondent. According to Azovtsev, the number of street crimes has decreased by almost 30% — from 800 to 569 incidents. The number of thefts, car thefts, and robberies has significantly decreased. He emphasized that ensuring order on the streets is primarily the work of external police units. The "Safe City" video surveillance system also plays an important role. The Nizhny Novgorod region ranks among the top ten regions in Russia for the number of installed cameras, which helps both to solve and prevent crimes. At the same time, during the spring-summer period, the number of thefts from garages, cars, as well as bicycles and strollers left unattended in hallways traditionally increases. The theft of personal belongings at beaches and cafes continues to be recorded. Azovtsev urged residents of the region to observe basic safety measures: not to leave property unattended, to avoid poorly lit areas at night, and not to hesitate to call for help. Offenses should be reported promptly by calling 112, through street communication terminals with the police, or by other available means. The police officer noted separately that a significant portion of crimes is committed against citizens in a state of alcohol intoxication, so it is important to remain vigilant during leisure time. Deputy head of the criminal investigation department Alexey Koshelev reported that in the first three months of 2026, the number of thefts from residences decreased by 45.5% compared to the same period last year — from 70 to 42 cases. The detection rate for such crimes was 69%. According to him, the peak of apartment thefts traditionally occurs during the May holidays. Police recommend installing video surveillance systems in entrances and at front doors, and, if possible, using "smart home" technologies. Neighbor cooperation remains an effective measure: residents of apartment buildings create chats, pay attention to strangers, and report suspicious individuals. If there are doubts, it is necessary to immediately inform the apartment owners or the police. As the speakers emphasized, solving crimes "hot on the trail" significantly increases the chances of a successful outcome. It was previously reported that in the first quarter of 2026, crime in the Nizhny Novgorod region decreased by 19.2%. NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has a Telegram channel. Subscribe to stay updated on major events, exclusive materials, and operational information. Copyright © 1999—2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod". When reprinting, a hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is mandatory. This resource may contain materials 18+.