Dr Ishrat-ul-Ibad urges immediate action on Karachi street crime

DUBAI: Former Sindh governor Dr Ishratul Ibad Khan voiced his alarm over the skyrocketing surge in street crime in Karachi during a recent telephonic conversation with the province’s interior minister, Ziaul Hassan Lanjar.

Dr Ibad underscored the pressing necessity for immediate and synchronised efforts to combat street criminals, emphasising that these crimes present a grave threat to national security and economic stability.

He called for decisive action to restore safety and confidence among Karachi’s residents and safeguard the city’s economic progress.

The former governor noted that the stability of Karachi, which is crucial to Pakistan’s economy, is being undermined by these incidents.

“Street crimes are the biggest obstacle to national security and economic development,” Dr Ibad stated. “Such crimes can cause instability, which is often the target of anti-national forces.”

He pointed out that peace in Karachi was achieved through great sacrifices and warned that the deteriorating law and order situation must not be allowed to continue.

Dr Ibad cited the killing of more than 70 people by street criminals this year alone, including the tragic death of 27-year-old Itqa Moin Khan, as a stark indication of the dire need for immediate action.

“Karachi contributes more than half of Pakistan’s gross national income,” Dr Ibad said. “It’s stability is essential for the development of the country.”

He called for a thorough examination of the factors driving the increase in street crime and stressed the importance of protecting young children, who have been among the victims of these crimes.

“Understanding the root causes behind this surge in street crime is crucial,” he added. “We must act swiftly to safeguard our citizens and ensure the continued peace and prosperity of Karachi.”