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Monday October 21, 2024

Capital police arrest 14,926 criminals, recover Rs1.55bn in 9-month crackdown

By Our crime correspondent
October 22, 2024
Representational image shows prisoners sitting inside a dark lockup are seen in this undated image. — AFP/File
Representational image shows prisoners sitting inside a dark lockup are seen in this undated image. — AFP/File

Islamabad:In an extensive crackdown aimed at curbing criminal activities in the federal capital, Islamabad Police arrested 14,926 individuals over the past nine months, recovering cash and valuables worth Rs1.55 billion, according to a statement from the police public relations officer.

The comprehensive operation targeted a wide range of criminal elements, including robbers, drug dealers, and individuals involved in illegal weapons possession. Police arrested 1,318 suspects from 557 robbery gangs, recovering stolen cash, vehicles, and other valuables.

As part of the ‘Nasha ab Nahi’ (no to drugs) campaign, 1,570 drug dealers were apprehended, leading to the recovery of 383 kilograms of hashish, 462 kilograms of heroin, 29 kilograms of ice (crystal meth), 13,226 litres of liquor, and a significant quantity of intoxicating pills.

Additionally, 3,460 suspects linked to theft, robbery, burglary, and vehicle theft were arrested. The police also seized a large cache of illegal weapons, including 95 rifles, 29 carbines, 1,374 pistols, and 209 daggers, resulting in the arrest of 1,684 individuals.

In a bid to tackle the issue of professional begging, 4,896 beggars and their facilitators were also taken into custody. Furthermore, police arrested 4,314 proclaimed offenders, court fugitives, and target offenders during ongoing operations.

Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Islamabad Police reaffirmed the force's commitment to maintaining law and order in the city. He emphasized that the police are using all available resources to ensure the eradication of drug dealers and criminal elements. "Those involved in heinous crimes such as drug and alcohol trafficking will be brought to justice," he said. This large-scale operation reflects Islamabad Police's resolve to restore peace and security in the capital, with ongoing efforts expected to yield further results in the coming months.