KARACHI:
Most cities in Pakistan are experiencing an uptick in street crimes and other criminal offences in busy public places. Across the country, criminals have raised fear and alarm amongst the public by snatching vehicles, mobile phones, and other valuables and killing victims on the spot for showing resistance. The people find themselves in a state of panic and distress when out on the roads. In many areas, robberies and break-ins have also increased leaving people feeling unsafe within their homes as well.
Surging inflation, low levels of literacy, unemployment, and inequality are some of the primary reasons that compel individuals to commit crimes. The law enforcement agencies’ inability to act against the culprits and put them behind bars has further emboldened the criminals. Their incompetence offers the criminals leverage allowing them to continue threatening and looting innocent citizens.
In some of the major cities, the situation is worsening day by day. Inflation is already crushing the masses, and most do not have enough money to spare on a new motorcycle or a phone. Therefore, law enforcement agencies need to assume responsibility to curb crime rates and recover people’s belongings. People must register FIRs and cooperate with the police to help them trace criminals. Federal and provincial departments should work together to form a coherent strategy to control the situation and restore law and order in all cities.
Sameen Mehmood
Islamabad
Published in The Express Tribune, January 17th, 2023.
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