Offensive street crimes are rapidly increasing in several regions of Pakistan, particularly in Karachi. Every day, more than 50 cases are reported, leaving people in the worst condition of their lives. Karachi, once labeled as the “City of Lights,” has become a hub of street crimes. Despite being the most populous city in Sindh, Karachi is witnessing a surge in offensive street crimes, including mobile snatching, purse cutting, gang violence, theft, robbery, and more.
Due to these street crimes, many virtuous residents of Karachi have lost their precious lives while defending their mobiles, wallets, chains, or goods from muggers. According to reports, in 2023, nearly 90,000 street crimes were reported in Karachi, resulting in over 540 deaths related to these crimes. Additionally, 59,305 motorcycles, 2,336 cars, and 28,000 mobiles were stolen or snatched from citizens, with many residents terribly injured or killed while resisting.
In 2024, around 16,000 street crimes were reported in Karachi since January. This year, 274 murders, 84 cases of kidnapping for ransom, and 30 cases of extortion were reported in the province from January 1 to March 12. If no action is taken, this ratio is estimated to increase in the coming years.
The past record shows a steady increase in street crimes, posing a significant risk to innocent civilians. Currently, the fear of street criminals is rising, and citizens do not feel safe anymore, often avoiding resistance against muggers. However, in exceptional cases, the public has stood up against muggers, catching and punishing them.
The MQM has suggested issuing more arms licenses to citizens to protect themselves, but this approach may lead to more unlawful activities and deaths. Instead, the government should focus on increasing policing, installing CCTV cameras, hiring special task forces, and implementing strict laws to combat street criminals.
To ensure citizens’ protection, the Sindh government must find unique alternatives to safeguard residents’ lives, which seem to be in danger. The government should prioritize residents’ protection and aim to rebel against street criminals, ensuring the safety of innocent Karachi residents who have been tolerating this situation for a long time.
Recent incidents, such as the tragic street crime on June 5 in Karachi’s federal B area, where a young man was shot dead while resisting a mobile snatching attempt, highlight the urgency of the situation. Another incident in Gulistan-e-Johar area resulted in the death of 35-year-old Fahad Khan, who tried to resist robbers. These incidents demonstrate the need for effective measures to prevent street crimes and protect citizens’ lives.
In conclusion, the Sindh government must take immediate action to address the issue of street crimes in Karachi, ensuring the safety and security of its residents.