Unpardonable crime

The reported rape and abduction of female foreign tourists is an unpardonable crime, warranting the state to push back with its full might. It is a profound shame that these women from Europe and South America were invited by a bona fide Pakistani host, only for him and his accomplices to later abduct and assault them. The four women, two of whom have now been rescued, were held for ransom and subjected to coercion and abuse. It goes without saying that the crime must come to awaken the authorities, leading to an impartial and unrelenting investigation, and subsequent prosecution of criminals.

It is also bothersome to note that a judicial magistrate found it appropriate to grant a physical remand for a mere five days for such a horrendous crime. This hints at skeletons in the cupboard. The authorities must ensure the culprits are held accountable without any lapses this time.

This crime bears the hallmarks of an influential criminal syndicate. The four arrested perpetrators, as well as the fifth co-conspirator, must face full retribution. The provincial government which is already mulling stringent legislations to crack down on anti-social elements must take this gory incident as a challenge, as well as an opportunity, to assert the writ of the state, and ensure that the accused are taken to task. This tragedy is a stain on civil society, severely undermining efforts to attract foreign investment and promote the country as an emerging tourist hub.

It is time for the authorities to implement a decisive damage-control strategy. To be effective, this must involve the public punishment of the perpetrators, thereby signaling absolute zero tolerance and strong deterrence. Moreover, the recent surge in major offences - especially against women and children, with 4,150 abuse cases recorded in just six months - demands action on a war footing.