The metropolis of Karachi has found itself in the throes of an escalating crisis characterised by a disconcerting surge in street crimes and the consequent loss of lives. The trend is deeply concerning, as it reflects a sharp increase in violence tied to street crimes and the vicious nature of perpetrators that show no remorse in taking an innocent life.
One of the significant factors contributing to this upswing is the proliferation of criminal syndicates actively involved in perpetrating robberies. A few years prior, Karachi was home to some 25-30 criminal groups engaged in street crimes, according to media reports. Presently, this figure has swelled, with an approximate count of 50-60. Offenses such as mobile snatching and motorbike thefts have witnessed a relentless uptick, exacerbating the prevailing climate of fear and vulnerability amongst the populace. Moreover, data compiled by the Citizens-Police Liaison Cell (CPLC) reveals a staggering volume of 60,000 street crime incidents within the city boundaries during the first nine months of 2023. These statistics not only make robust and multifaceted intervention strategies an imperative but also highlight the utter failure of the Safe City Project so boisterously initiated by the Sindh government. To staunch the tide of escalating street crimes, it is incumbent upon law enforcement authorities to undertake immediate and resolute measures. The police structure must undergo drastic reformation, which should include bolstering law enforcement, engaging local communities, implementing state-of-the-art technologies, penalising or rehabilitating offenders and rooting out corruption and corrupt officers.
The citizens of Karachi, by virtue of their fundamental rights, are entitled to live without fear and intimidation. Only through concerted and coordinated efforts by the police and policymakers can the prospect of restoring a sense of security and serenity to the streets of Karachi be realised.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 25th, 2023.
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