KARACHI:
As I step out, fear grips my heart. Pakistan’s crime scene has become a nightmare. A sinister trend has emerged: copycat crimes inspired by media, foreign events or entertainment. These crimes spread terror and claim lives.
I recall the 2018 ‘Chura Maar’ i.e. knife attacks in Karachi, inspired by similar attacks in China. The 2019 acid attacks in Faisalabad and 2020 ATM robberies in Lahore, mimicking Indian movie heists, are other examples.
The alarming frequency of these crimes stems from a toxic mix of factors: ill-equipped law enforcement, scarce mental health services and sensationalised media coverage.
It’s time to break this cycle of violence. We urge the government to take concrete steps to address the issue. This includes enforcing laws, promoting awareness, implementing media regulations and providing mental health services.
To the media, we say: be responsible, use trigger warnings, avoid sensationalised reporting and refrain from glorifying violence.
Let’s work together to create a safer, more informed Pakistan.
Ruqaya Tufail
Karachi
