Two suspected motorcycle snatchers were killed and 29 others injured in retaliatory police firing during a wide-ranging crackdown on criminal elements in the city, a spokesperson for CCP Balochistan announced Thursday. The operations, which intensified over the last three months, also resulted in injuries to five police personnel who came under fire from suspects attempting to evade arrest.
The extensive anti-crime campaign led to the arrest of 116 suspects. In these successful initiatives, authorities recovered four stolen vehicles, 56 motorcycles, and 14 mobile phones, aiming to improve law and order and protect the public.
These actions are part of a broader police strategy implemented ahead of Ramadan to thwart motorcycle snatching gangs. According to the spokesperson, it is common for the accused to open fire on police personnel to resist arrest during these encounters.
To maintain peace during the holy month, the police and district administration have enacted a special security plan across the city. Additional police officers have been deployed to mosques, imambargahs, markets, and important public areas to ensure citizens can worship and shop securely.
According to officials, 116 personnel have been assigned specifically for security during Taraweeh prayers. Security measures are heightened for Fridays and other religious gatherings, with increased patrols in sensitive zones and special checks to monitor suspicious individuals.
To manage the expected crowds during Iftar and Sehri hours in markets and shopping centres, the administration has deployed an additional 200 traffic police, mobile squads, motorcycle patrols, and foot police personnel to prevent crime.
Furthermore, traffic police have been stationed on main highways and in markets to maintain the flow of traffic. Surveillance is being conducted via CCTV cameras in some areas, while Quick Response Teams are on standby to handle any emergencies.
Police authorities have appealed to citizens to cooperate fully with security agencies and immediately report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station or on helplines 9202555, 9202777, or 15.