Karachi - the bustling metropolis of Pakistan - has been plagued by a surge in street crime incidents during the holy month of Ramadan, claiming the lives of at least 16 individuals due to robberies.
According to recent data compiled by authorities, a staggering 6,780 street crime incidents have been recorded within the city limits of Karachi throughout Ramadan. Among these incidents, reports indicate that 20 automobiles were forcibly snatched, while over 130 others were stolen.
Furthermore, the statistics reveal a harrowing trend of thefts targeting personal property, with a significant number of 4,200 bikes stolen and 830 others snatched during this period. In addition, perpetrators targeted citizens' communication devices, with 1,600 cell phones reportedly being snatched.
Expressing grave concern over the deteriorating law and order situation, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has issued directives to the law enforcement agencies to bolster security measures across Karachi. With Eid-ul-Fitr approaching and a surge in market activity anticipated, CM Murad emphasized the need to safeguard the lives and properties of citizens.
Chairing a high-level meeting to address the escalating crime wave, CM Murad commended the efforts of the police force for their recent success in rescuing two hostages, Abdullah and Kashif, during a raid conducted in Baldia Town.
The operation, led by a dedicated team comprising DIG Muqaddas Haider and other officers, resulted in the apprehension of suspects Sabir Inayat Rehman, Hayat Ali, and Wahidullah.
It was revealed during the meeting that the apprehended suspects had lured their victims under false pretenses, promising to facilitate their migration to Italy, only to subsequently abduct them for ransom. Notably, the group was reported to have primarily operated from abroad, posing a formidable challenge for law enforcement agencies.
In light of these developments, CM Murad affirmed his commitment to personally engage with police officials to bolster morale and reinforce the collective resolve to combat criminal activities. Despite the alarming spike in crime incidents, he underscored that the average daily count of registered cases in Karachi remained comparatively lower than in other cities across the country, highlighting the need for sustained efforts to ensure public safety and security.
