Authorities in the federal capital today reported a substantial 50 per cent decrease in overall criminal activity during January 2026 compared to the corresponding period last year, according to figures released by the Islamabad Capital Police.
In a series of operations throughout the month, law enforcement personnel apprehended 2,161 individuals and retrieved stolen goods valued at more than Rs. 17.8 million.
A targeted crackdown on organised crime resulted in the detention of 40 members from 99 different criminal syndicates allegedly involved in robbery, snatching, and vehicle theft. These operations led to the recovery of 31 stolen vehicles and 47 motorcycles.
Under a dedicated ‘Weapon-Free Islamabad’ initiative, 205 suspects were taken into custody for illegal arms possession, leading to the seizure of 28 rifles, 155 pistols, and over 1,300 rounds of ammunition.
Separately, an anti-narcotics drive, codenamed ‘Nasha Ab Nahi,’ saw 153 alleged drug traffickers apprehended in 151 separate cases. The narcotics seizures included 29 kg of hashish, 18 kg of heroin, more than 14 kg of crystal methamphetamine (ice), and 719 bottles of liquor.
The month-long enforcement actions also targeted known fugitives, with 483 proclaimed offenders and previously convicted criminals being apprehended. Additionally, a zero-tolerance policy against illegal land occupation resulted in 10 cases being filed and seven suspects arrested.
To maintain public order, police conducted operations against professional begging, resulting in the arrest of 548 individuals. Furthermore, more than 147 search and combing operations were carried out across the city to enhance security.
In an effort to improve public service, police officials held over 70 open forums, or “open courts”, to provide immediate resolutions to citizen complaints.
SSP Operations Islamabad, Qazi Ali Raza, affirmed that the protection of citizens” lives and property is the force”s primary objective.
He noted that the department has designated 2026 as the ‘Year of Public Service Delivery’ and reiterated that all police offices are accessible 24/7 to assist the public, reaffirming a commitment to enhancing service and justice standards throughout the capital.