Surge in Street Crimes in Karachi Raises Alarm

Karachi experiences a significant increase in street crime with nearly 6,000 incidents reported in August. Motorcycle thefts and mobile snatchings are rampant, contributing to a pervasive sense of insecurity. Reports highlight fatalities and a low recovery rate for stolen items, exacerbating the city's lawlessness.

Karachi has witnessed a dramatic escalation in street crime, reporting 5,960 incidents in August alone, according to ARY News. The Citizens-Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) revealed that 23 cars were stolen at gunpoint, while a total of 150 vehicles were reported stolen during the month.

The report emphasizes that motorcycles remain a frequent target, with 656 stolen and 3,385 taken from various parts of the city so far this year. Additionally, 1,737 mobile phones have been snatched from residents. Reports also mention three kidnapping-for-ransom incidents and six extortion cases.

Earlier, Karachi police documented a significant uptick in street crimes, with over 44,000 incidents recorded in the first seven months of 2024. Motorcycle theft predominated, with 31,000 bikes stolen. More than 11,800 mobile phones and approximately 1,200 cars were also reported taken.

This rise in criminal activity has intensified insecurity among residents, compounded by a low recovery rate for stolen items. Dawn highlighted an increase in street robberies and muggings, particularly in densely populated and commercial districts where theft risk is higher.

On April 2, The Express Tribune noted Karachi's escalating street crime problem, pointing to lawlessness fueled by frequent viral CCTV footage. The report underscored that rising crime has led to fatalities, with 23 individuals killed in robbery-related incidents during January and February alone.

(With inputs from agencies.)