PKMAP Raises Alarm Over Rising Crime in Quetta, Alleges Bribery at Hazarganji Police Checkpoints

QUETTA: The Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PKMAP) has voiced serious concern over the increasing incidents of theft, robbery, and street crime in Quetta and its surrounding areas, while alleging that laborers are being subjected to bribery at police checkpoints in Hazarganji.

In a press statement, the party claimed that residents of Hazarganji, the Eastern and Western Bypass, Takhtani Bypass, Sariab Circle, and other parts of the city are facing growing insecurity due to a surge in criminal activities.

According to the statement, laborers, traders, shopkeepers, and ordinary citizens are allegedly being robbed in broad daylight, with incidents involving the snatching of vehicles, motorcycles, mobile phones, and cash reportedly on the rise.

PKMAP further alleged that workers traveling between Hazarganji and Akhtarabad are being asked to pay bribes ranging from Rs500 to Rs1,500 at police checkpoints. The party claimed that those who refuse to pay are allegedly harassed.

Referring to a recent armed robbery at a residence in Mahmoodabad, the party said the suspects remain at large despite the passage of time.

The statement also criticized what it described as inadequate police patrolling in several areas and alleged that victims in some police stations encounter difficulties when attempting to register First Information Reports (FIRs).

PKMAP called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Balochistan to take immediate notice of the rising crime rate, the allegations of bribery, and the overall performance of the police. The party urged the authorities to investigate the allegations, take action against any officials found negligent, increase police patrols, and ensure the protection of citizens’ lives and property in accordance with the law.