Criminal gangs continue looting spree in Islamabad

Islamabad has been experiencing a surge in criminal activity, with more than 40 incidents of theft, robbery, and vehicle theft reported in the past week, according to Business Recorder. Despite the presence of numerous surveillance cameras, increased patrolling, and enhanced police deployment, these crimes continue to escalate, particularly in certain areas of the capital city.

The incidents, documented by police at various stations, indicate a concerning trend. Sunbal, Industrial Area, Khanna, Humak, Lohi Bheer, and Margalla police stations have seen the highest number of reported crimes. Among the 40 reported incidents, 27 were auto-thefts and carjackings, five involved the theft of mobile phones and cash at gunpoint, and eight encompassed different forms of theft and robbery.

Within this rampant criminal spree, 23 of the stolen vehicles were motorbikes, while four were cars. One such incident occurred near Shamshad Market, where a man named Shafqat was robbed while attempting to enter his vehicle. Armed suspects managed to snatch his mobile phone and wallet before making a swift getaway. In another incident, a young man in Sector D-12/1 was allegedly targeted at gunpoint. Additionally, two motorcycle-borne suspects allegedly robbed a citizen in the Golra area and fled the scene.

Three cases of auto theft and one case each of robbery and street crime were reported to the Sunbal Police Station. Four instances of auto theft, including a car-lifting case, were registered at the Industrial Area Police Station. Khanna Police Station, too, has been on the receiving end of the criminal onslaught, receiving reports of two carjacking cases and one incident each of street crime and robbery.