Committing crime on railway between 2016 and 2020

Abstract

Aim: Crimes committed on railways and trains are at the center of the study with the question of how different built environmental and geographical factors affect them, what it depends on where, with what frequency and what type of crime they commit.

Methodology: The data included in the research were taken from the databases of MÁV-START Zrt. and the National Police Headquarters (crime location: railway), which were examined according to the following factors: types of crime; location, settlement; railway line, railway station; train; period; and the effect of crime prevention tools. The research is based on the theories of environmental criminology, geography of crime and situational crime prevention.

Findings: During the 5 years under review the number of crimes committed on trains has increased. Of the factors examined the location of the railway lines has the greatest impact on criminals. Most crimes are committed in Budapest and in the north-western region of Hungary, Győr, especially on railway line 1. Different types of crimes are committed on the western and eastern railway lines. In terms of types of trains, most crimes are committed on Railjet trains and passenger trains. These are mainly committed in February and the summer. Crime prevention tools and techniques used on trains are becoming more and more common. The examined factors not only affect the offenders individually, but also collectively.

Value: I have drawn conclusions about the connection with crimes committed on railways and social, socio-economic factors in Hungary. I also emphasize the importance of crime prevention techniques that can help to improve passenger safety and the reduce crime in rail transport.