Persistent street crimes

The surge in street crimes in Karachi remains a concerning issue that has far-reaching implications for its citizens as well as the broader socio-political landscape of Pakistan. The recent statistics, as revealed by the Inspector General of Police, paint the grim picture that some 23 citizens have fallen victim to armed robbers during just the first two months of the year.

One of the primary challenges in addressing street crimes in Karachi is the lack of effective policing and insufficient manpower. It has been brought to light that only 12,000 law enforcers are currently deployed at the city’s 108 police stations, out of a total strength of 48,000. Furthermore, 25,000 vacant posts of policemen in the province highlight a significant gap in the force. This shortage of personnel hampers the ability of law enforcement agencies to adequately patrol the city and respond swiftly to incidents of street crime. To address these gaps, there is a need to increase the number of police officers stationed at Karachi’s police stations. Doubling the number of law enforcers to 24,000 would significantly help improve the police’s ability to maintain law and order. Moreover, a comprehensive review of policing strategies and protocols is also essential. Focus must be made on identifying potential hotspots for street crime and an analysis of the modus operandi of criminal gangs. The police should be provided with updated training and resources to effectively combat these evolving threats.

It is imperative for the government and law enforcement agencies to work hand in hand with citizens and communities to collectively tackle this issue. By prioritising safety and security, Karachi can pave the way towards becoming a safer and more livable city for all.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 3^rd, 2024.

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