Karachi, Pakistan, has become a haven for lawlessness, with a startling 26 individuals falling victim to street criminals since the start of 2024. Despite numerous policies implemented by the Sindh police, the number of deaths continues to surge. Among the victims was a young girl.
Survivors and observers express dismay over the city's inability to curb street crime, as bandits roam freely despite the presence of police. The law and order situation has deteriorated steadily, with alarming incidents such as the recent shooting death of a 2-year-old girl on her doorstep.Families of victims call for the removal of incompetent officers, particularly the relevant Station House Officers (SHOs). In the past two days alone, three individuals were killed and several injured during muggings. A passerby was shot and killed near Iqbal Market, while two brothers were targeted in a failed robbery attempt near Banaras Bridge, resulting in the death of one and serious injuries to the other.Observers attribute the escalating street crime to the ever-present menace in Karachi and Sindh as a whole. Despite claims by former governments to improve law and order, the situation has spiraled out of control, with countless victims falling prey to criminals.
Insufficient police strength and political interference within the department have exacerbated the problem. Observers emphasize the need for recruiting approximately 50,000 additional officers based on merit to address the policing challenges. The recently elected government has pledged to restore order to Karachi, but it remains to be seen whether it can fulfill its promise and end the city's reign of lawlessness.