Street criminals or killers?
The recent surge in the killing of citizens by armed street criminals in Karachi has reached an alarming level. According to data compiled by the Sindh police, the number of reported murders committed by robbers has doubled in the first five months of this year compared to the same period last year. This significant increase in violent crime demands immediate attention from authorities and the community at large.
The statistics reveal a grim reality. From January to May, 44 innocent citizens lost their lives to robbers, as compared to 26 during the corresponding period last year. It is critical to note that these numbers are grossly underreported. Victims are from all walks of life and their deaths signify a profound loss for their families and friends. The most concerning aspect is that many victims were shot by armed criminals despite offering no resistance, either physically or verbally. As a result, the entire city has been enveloped in an atmosphere of fear. It is disheartening that the police categorise such cases as ‘robbery resistance’ without properly distinguishing between victims who resisted and those who did not. This approach fails to accurately reflect the reality of the crimes committed and adds another barrier towards deconstructing the crisis.
The current state of lawlessness in Karachi demands a multi-faceted approach. The police need to enhance their intelligence capabilities, strengthen their patrols and implement proactive measures to identify and apprehend criminals. It is crucial to establish specialised units, equipped with the necessary resources and training, that are dedicated to bringing down the nest of criminals that have seized Karachi. Simultaneously, the criminal justice system needs to be streamlined to ensure swift and fair trials and subsequent harsh punishment for these killers. Delays in the legal process ultimately undermine legal deterrence and allow criminals to operate with impunity.
Published in The Express Tribune, June 21st, 2023.
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