Despite police crackdowns and claims of progress, Karachi remains at the mercy of ruthless criminals. The latest Citizens-Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) report highlights a troubling rise in street crime, painting a stark contrast between law enforcement’s assurances and the grim reality on the ground.
According to the report released on Sunday, 36 people were killed in various incidents last month, while 1,402 mobile phones were snatched across the city.
CPLC officials revealed that February saw 3,773 motorcycles and 195 cars stolen, including 36 snatched four-wheelers and 159 stolen. Additionally, 549 motorcycles were snatched, while 3,224 were stolen. The city also recorded four extortion cases and one abduction for ransom, though no bank robberies or dacoities were reported.
The crime wave in 2024 has been relentless, with The News reporting that 1,503 people—including women, children, and law enforcement officials—fell victim to violent incidents. Despite the police’s aggressive “half-fry” approach (arrest and shoot), criminals remained undeterred, killing 106 people, including an army officer, a retired commando, police officials, engineers, security guards, and women. Around 300 others were injured in robberies.
While city police claim a 21% reduction in crime compared to the previous year, boasting crime-solving rates on par with major global cities, the streets tell a different story.
For Karachi’s residents, statistics offer little comfort when fear governs daily life. With criminals looting billions and resorting to violence over the slightest resistance, the real question remains—when will the city see actual change beyond just reports and numbers?