Rising crimes worry Peshawarites

PESHAWAR:

The residents of Peshawar are experiencing a disturbing surge in robbery incidents, including in the old walled city, leading to widespread panic. Thieves are boldly snatching mobile phones and valuable items during daylight hours without attracting attention from authorities.

Recently, a young man was caught by local traders in Sarafa Bazaar after allegedly stealing from the Gems and Jewelry Market, which he reportedly targeted on multiple occasions. The suspect was severely beaten by the traders before being handed over to the police.

This was not the first time that the bandit targeted the same market as traders claimed that he was a frequent visitor but it was for the first time that he was caught red-handed.

Frustrated shopkeepers are demanding that the government take measures to ensure their safety and the security of the city. Despite the installation of CCTV cameras in various locations, bandits continue to operate without fear of being caught.

One shopkeeper, speaking anonymously, revealed that he has been robbed at gunpoint several times in the same market. Most of these incidents occur in city areas where police patrols are rare.

In another incident, a senior journalist named Nadir Khawja lost his motorbike while taking his ailing mother to the hospital. Although the police arrested the alleged thief, Khawja did not receive his stolen bike back.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 27^th, 2023.