Rising Wave of Street Crime
A fresh surge in street crime has alarmed residents in the Pakistani district of Gujrat, where five armed robbery incidents were reported in a single day. According to local police and eyewitnesses, unidentified assailants targeted citizens in Dheerke, Kaliwal, Sehna, Khattala, and Sarai Alamgir, escaping with cash, mobile phones, and motorcycles.
Locals say that armed robberies, which had declined in recent months, appear to be on the rise again. The incidents have spread fear among residents and raised concerns about public safety and police presence in these semi-urban areas.
Citizens Targeted at Gunpoint
In Dheerke, armed robbers intercepted a man named Salman and forced him at gunpoint to hand over thousands of rupees. A similar incident occurred near Khattala, where residents of Tanda were robbed of cash by unknown armed men.
Meanwhile, on the GT Road near Kaliwal Sadaat, robbers stopped a man from Kotla Qasim Khan and snatched his motorcycle, mobile phone, and cash before fleeing.
In Sehna, two motorcycle riders from Lumme were held up and robbed of their phones and money. Another incident took place in Sarai Alamgir, where a resident of Jhelum lost his mobile phone and cash during a street robbery.
Public Concern Over Safety
The string of robberies has sparked widespread concern among locals, many of whom are urging the authorities to increase police patrols and surveillance. Residents claim that poor street lighting and limited police visibility make it easier for criminals to operate at night.
According to recent police data, street crimes in Punjab — including robberies, mobile snatching, and car theft — have increased by over 12% this year compared to 2024. Gujrat, an industrial and trade hub, has been particularly affected.
Local police have reportedly launched investigations into all five incidents, but no arrests have been made so far.
Call for Action
Community leaders are calling for stronger law enforcement measures, better coordination between police stations, and the installation of CCTV cameras in high-risk areas.
Residents say they hope the authorities will take swift action before such crimes become routine again in the district.
