Residents of Islamabad Suffer Massive Losses from Increased Crime

Synopsis

Islamabad is facing unprecedented crime rates, with thefts and robberies leading to losses exceeding Rs 620 million in early 2025. The capital's reputation for safety is being challenged as residents experience a surge in violence and property crime.

Key Takeaways

Theft and robbery incidents have surged in Islamabad.
Over Rs 620 million lost by citizens in three months.
518 tolas of gold, 93 motorcycles, and numerous electronics stolen.
Violent crimes have resulted in fatalities and injuries.
Police data suggests underreporting of criminal activities.

Islamabad, April 18 (NationPress) The capital city of Pakistan, Islamabad, which has long been regarded as the nation's safest city, is now witnessing a surge in criminal activity. The first quarter of 2025 has seen robberies, snatchings, burglaries, dacoities, and thefts leading to a staggering loss exceeding Rs 620 million for its residents.

From January 1 to March 28, a total of 518 tolas of gold, 93 motorcycles, 15 vehicles, 924 mobile phones, and 87 laptops were reported stolen. Tragically, these criminal acts have resulted in the deaths of two individuals, injuries to 20 others, and 10 people suffering firearm injuries.

Data from the capital police indicates that 304 criminal incidents occurred in residential areas, while 139 targeted commercial establishments. Moreover, at least 846 incidents happened in public places.

Further police reports show that six dacoity cases resulted in the theft of Rs 11 million in cash and valuables totaling Rs 9 million. Additionally, 438 robbery cases were documented, of which one person was murdered, 10 were shot and injured, and five sustained other injuries.

In total, Rs 69 million in cash and valuables worth Rs 129 million were stolen, alongside 141 tolas of gold, six vehicles, 73 motorcycles, 429 mobile phones, and five laptops. Police also recorded at least 196 snatching cases, resulting in the loss of Rs 15 million in cash and valuables valued at Rs 75 million.

While the list of thefts and robberies continues to grow, police officials suggest that the actual number of criminal activities is likely much higher due to unregistered cases despite the issuance of e-tags.

An official remarked, "There is a concerning trend within the capital police to minimize the gravity of crimes. Instances of robbery are being misclassified as dacoity, while snatching cases are being documented as fraud."