Mobile phone snatching incidents in Karachi increased by 4.2 percent in September compared to August, according to the latest data released by the Citizens-Police Liaison Committee (CPLC).
A total of 1,542 mobile snatching cases were reported in September, up from 1,480 in August, highlighting a continued rise in street crime across Karachi and suggesting that current law enforcement measures have failed to curb the street crime in the metropolis.
According to the data released by CPLC, some categories recorded marginal improvements, others worsened, leaving the overall crime rate in Pakistan’s largest city alarmingly high despite repeated efforts by law enforcement agencies.
The report revealed that in September, snatching cases fell slightly to from 31 to 27, along with thefts at 172.
READ: Karachi: 54 lives lost, over 5,500 street crimes reported in August
Motorcycle-related crimes continued to dominate the city’s street crime profile, with 3,181 motorcycles stolen and 517 snatched at gunpoint during September.
Mobile phone snatching witnessed a sharp increase, rising from 1480 reported incidents in August to 1542 in September, reflecting the growing vulnerability of citizens in public spaces.
CPLC’s report identified mobile theft as one of the most common urban crimes, disproportionately affecting working professionals, students, and commuters across key commercial and residential districts.
Extortion cases, though relatively fewer in number, tripled within a month – from one case in August to three in September – highlighting the concern among businesses and local traders.
Fatal shootings saw a minor decline, with 54 deaths reported in August compared to 51 in September, yet gun violence remains a serious safety concern.
Karachi’s street crime situation continues to deteriorate overall, with thousands of citizens affected monthly by theft, snatching, and armed robberies.
