According to authorities, Karachi witnessed a surge in crime during 2023, with alarming figures reported, including over 500 cases of sexual assault against women and underage girls. The police surgeon, Summaiya Syed, highlighted that 4,042 cases of physical assault on women were also recorded during the year.
The Edhi Foundation’s data revealed a grim picture, indicating that 714 people were shot dead, marking a 15% increase in violent deaths compared to the previous year. Among the statistics provided by the foundation, 248 individuals died due to torture, 23 in cylinder/gas explosions, and 180 committed suicide. Tragically, 223 bodies of newborns were recovered during the year, indicating the severity of infanticide cases.
Further data from the Edhi Foundation included:
- 191 people drowned in different incidents.
- 119 died of electrocution.
- 224 cases of infanticide were reported.
- 750 people were killed in road traffic accidents, with 11,728 injuries. Motorcyclists constituted 63% of those killed and injured in traffic accidents.
The police spokesperson added that Sindh witnessed 3,158 encounters in which 21 policemen were martyred. Notably, 1,726 criminal gangs were eliminated, and in encounters with dacoits in riverine areas, 40 bandits were killed, and 136 were arrested.
Sindh Rangers reported conducting 163 operations against terrorists, targeted killers, kidnappers, and extortionists, resulting in the arrest of 197 high-profile suspects. They also highlighted their efforts against water theft, saving approximately 25 MGD of water and contributing to a monthly revenue increase of Rs200 million for the Karachi Water & Sewerage Board.
The crime statistics underscore the need for comprehensive measures to address the various forms of violence and criminal activities affecting Karachi.
