Karachi has once again seen a sharp rise in fear among citizens as street crime remains unchecked, with more than 14,000 incidents reported in the first three months of the year and 26 people killed while resisting robberies.
For many residents, stepping out of their homes now comes with the fear of being deprived of their vehicles, mobile phones, cash or other valuables — or even losing their lives during a robbery. Concerns have also grown over armed groups involved in short-term kidnappings, forcing victims to transfer money from their bank accounts.
According to Citizens-Police Liaison Committee figures, 5,125 street crime incidents were reported in January, 4,608 in February and 4,869 in March. Sources said 26 citizens were also killed during robberies when they resisted.
To curb crime, cameras were installed across the city, but suspects have reportedly found ways to evade monitoring. They are now using rented vehicles and changing their number plates before committing crimes.
Police officials, however, claim that if the first three months of the current year are compared with previous years, crime has declined.
While the uncontrolled crime situation in Karachi remains a matter of concern, an even more alarming issue is that most criminals involved in killing citizens during robberies remain outside the reach of the law.
