ISLAMABAD: Residents and traders in Tramri Chowk and surrounding neighborhoods of the federal capital say they are facing a sharp rise in street crime, with increasing incidents of mobile phone snatching, vehicle and motorcycle theft, cash robberies, and armed burglaries leaving the community fearful.

According to local traders, criminals often enter shops posing as customers before suddenly pulling out firearms and holding shopkeepers at gunpoint. They then flee with cash, mobile phones and other valuables. Traders said several such incidents have occurred in recent weeks, creating a growing sense of insecurity within the business community.

Residents said the problem extends beyond markets, with pedestrians also becoming frequent targets. They alleged that armed robbers routinely snatch mobile phones, cash and other valuables from people on streets and in residential areas before escaping. They also claimed that incidents of car and motorcycle theft have continued to rise.

People living in the area said they have resided there for decades but have never witnessed such a deteriorating law and order situation. According to residents, the increasing crime has heightened fears among women, students, office workers, traders and other members of the public, with many avoiding unnecessary travel after sunset.

Locals also claimed that many victims choose not to report crimes to the police because of fear, delays in legal proceedings or a lack of confidence that action will be taken. As a result, they believe a significant number of incidents never become part of the official crime record.

Residents expressed concern over the police response and urged authorities to take immediate and effective measures to curb the growing crime.

The local community and traders appealed to the Inspector General of Islamabad Police and other relevant authorities to increase police patrols in Tramri Chowk and adjoining areas, launch an indiscriminate crackdown on criminal elements, strengthen security checkpoints and surveillance, and take urgent steps to protect the lives and property of residents in an effort to restore public confidence and improve the area’s law and order situation.

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