Lawmakers alarmed by capital crime surge

Members of the National Assembly's Standing Committee on Interior on Wednesday expressed serious concern over the rising crime rate and the 'inefficiency' of the Islamabad police to prevent crimes in the federal capital.

During a committee meeting chaired by MNA Raja Khurram Shehzad Nawaz, lawmakers voiced alarm over the increase in street crimes and snatching incidents in the federal capital.

MNA Zartaj Gul pointed out that militants resembling the 'Taliban' were now openly roaming areas like Taunsa in Punjab, saying, "These people have reached our neighbourhoods."

Committee member Sahibzada Hamid Raza was of the view that a senior Senate official was robbed along with his family in Islamabad, and despite multiple visits to local police stations, no progress has been made. "That officer is exhausted from running in circles. Is humiliating parliamentarians now solely the job of Islamabad police—or do Rawalpindi police share that responsibility?" he asked. He also revealed that a fellow parliamentarian was physically assaulted during an arrest, highlighting a serious lapse in police conduct.

The committee was particularly critical of the surge in street crimes, especially snatching, with members emphasising that no effective action seems to be underway.

In response, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry proposed a briefing at the Islamabad Police Headquarters, saying while the federal police were indeed facing challenges, they had also made progress in several areas. "I can only speak on behalf of Islamabad police, not other institutions," he said.

Chairman Raja Khurram Nawaz acknowledged the concerns, saying Islamabad police officials would be summoned to respond. "We won't solve anything by fighting among ourselves," he added.