Islamabad– Once regarded as Pakistan’s safest city, Islamabad has seen a sharp rise in criminal activity, with citizens losing more than Rs 620 million to robberies, thefts, snatchings, and burglaries in the first quarter of 2025 alone.
According to data from the capital police, between January 1 and March 28, criminals stole at least 518 tolas of gold, 93 motorcycles, 15 vehicles, 924 mobile phones, and 87 laptops from residents. The wave of crime has also claimed two lives, left 20 people injured, and resulted in 10 firearm injuries during various incidents.
The police report highlights that 304 crimes targeted homes and residential areas, 139 were recorded in commercial zones, and at least 846 incidents took place in public spaces across the city.
The data shows that six dacoity (armed robbery) cases were officially registered, involving the theft of Rs 11 million in cash and an additional Rs 9 million worth of valuables. Another 438 robbery cases were logged, including one murder, 10 gunshot injuries, and five additional injuries.
Further analysis reveals that during the first three months of the year, robbers made off with Rs 69 million in cash and valuables worth Rs 129 million, including 141 tolas of gold, six vehicles, 73 motorcycles, 429 mobile phones, and five laptops. Additionally, 196 cases of snatching were reported, resulting in the loss of Rs 15 million in cash and Rs 75 million in valuables.
Despite these alarming figures, officials believe the actual number of crimes is significantly higher. Many victims reportedly chose not to file formal complaints, and even among registered cases, discrepancies have emerged.
“There is a growing trend within the capital police of downplaying the severity of crimes,” a police official said. “Cases that should be recorded as armed robberies are being logged as simple thefts, and incidents of snatching are being misclassified as fraud.”
The concerning spike in crime and alleged misreporting has raised questions about law enforcement transparency and the effectiveness of security measures in the nation’s capital. (Source: IANS)
