Suspect involved in cash vans and banks heist arrested

Islamabad:The Islamabad police have apprehended a suspect in connection with a brazen cash van heist in Sector G-9, Karachi Company and G-15 that left one person dead and dozens injured including private security guards, pedestrians and a shopkeeper. The suspect, whose recent crime spree included multiple robberies of banks and cash vans, was arrested after an extensive five-day operation.

The robber was heard-core activist of a religious party (but the name of the party is not mention as the religious party was unaware about the criminal activities of the suspect), the people engaged in the investigation of the case disclosed.

DIG Islamabad Police Syed Ali Raza confirmed in a press conference held in the conference hall of the Rescue-15 that the incident took place on October 29. Through a combination of surveillance footage, digital monitoring, and data analysis, the Islamabad police, in coordination with the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), managed to capture the 24-year-old suspect.

The DIG (Operations) said that the police recovered cash, a motorcycle, a firearm including SMG, and other items linked to the heist from the suspect. During interrogation, the suspect, who previously served jail time in Punjab for similar offenses, admitted to carrying out the recent robberies. He said that originally from a village in Sargodha, he had worked as an electrician in Islamabad, using his local knowledge to evade authorities while engaging in criminal activities.

The DIG noted that the suspect arrived in Islamabad around five years ago and gradually became familiar with the city's streets, complicating his capture. Through his criminal acts, he had gathered funds to purchase an AK-47 rifle, which he reportedly used in the heists. Police are actively tracing the dealer who sold him the weapon and will release further details soon.

DIG Raza emphasised that Islamabad police, under Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi's directive to make the capital a crime-free city, will continue to strengthen efforts to protect citizens. This arrest marks a significant step in Islamabad’s ongoing crackdown on violent crime.

To recall, the cash van heist on October 29 involved a confrontation in which the suspect shot a security guard, snatched a cash bag, and fled the scene, leaving one dead and three wounded. The arrest of the suspect brings some relief to residents as police reinforce security measures citywide.

DIG Raza reviewed the security landscape and rising crime trends in Islamabad, instructing police officials to take decisive action against criminal elements. He directed the Dolphin and Ababeel squads to intensify patrols and conduct thorough checks across the city. Enhanced checks at entry and exit points and expanded surveillance through Safe City cameras were mandated to ensure comprehensive monitoring. Officers were also urged to remain highly visible within their jurisdictions, closely oversee all security measures, and ensure detailed registration for suspicious individuals, vehicles, and motorcycles during checks. "If a major crime occurs within an officer’s jurisdiction, the responsible officers will be held accountable," DIG Raza warned, underscoring a policy of strict accountability.

He also called on senior officers to maintain open communication with their subordinates, addressing concerns to boost morale. "A motivated and well-supported team is vital for effective policing and public safety," he noted. DIG Raza's directives come as part of a broader strategy to reinforce security measures and reassure residents amidst growing concerns about crime in Islamabad.