Karachi, the largest city in Pakistan, has unfortunately been plagued by street crimes for many years. Street crime in Karachi has racked up recently amid political and economic turmoil within the country.
The Citizens-Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) on Monday released a report on street crimes committed in the first four months of 2023 in Karachi.
According to the alarming details, the CPLC has reported that during the first four months of 2023 alone, nearly 19,000 motorcycles were snatched or stolen, with only 1,069 recovered.
9,464 citizens were deprived of their cell phones during the first four months of 2023, out of which only 161 were recovered. In addition, 754 vehicles were snatched and only 211 were recovered.
As many as 186 people lost their lives while resisting robbery bids and other incidents, while several others sustained wounds.
Read more: Karachi: 11000 robberies in 50 days
Street crime in Karachi: Reasons & government initiatives
The reasons behind street crime in Karachi are complex and multifaceted. Poverty is one of the main factors that contribute to this issue. Karachi has a large population of poor and underprivileged people and poverty often leads people to turn to crime as a means of survival, particularly if they have no other way of earning a living.
Unemployment is another major factor contributing to street crime in Karachi. Many young people are unable to find work, which can lead to frustration and desperation, prompting them to engage in criminal activities.
Weak law enforcement is also a significant factor contributing to street crime in Karachi. Criminals often operate with impunity due to the weakness of law enforcement agencies.
The government has taken various steps to improve law and order, including the establishment of special police units to tackle street crime. In addition, the government is working to improve the economy and create more job opportunities for young people. However, more needs to be done to address the root causes of street crime in Karachi.
Read more: Sindh police launch Shaheen Force to fight street crime
In conclusion, street crime remains a major challenge for the people of Karachi. While the local authorities are making efforts to address this issue, it will require sustained and coordinated efforts from all stakeholders, including the government, law enforcement agencies, civil society, and citizens, to effectively tackle this problem and make Karachi a safer place for everyone.