KARACHI: An anti-terrorism court (ATC) on Thursday handed down a total of 23-year imprisonment to a street criminal for attempting to snatch mobile phones from two policemen in plain clothes

After hearing arguments from state prosecutor Nasrullah Majeed and the defence counsel, the judge of the ATC-XV, who conducted the trial at the Judicial Complex within the premises of the Central Prison Karachi, found Allah Rakha guilty and awarded him sentences on five counts — seven-year imprisonment under Section 397 (robbery or dacoity, with attempt to cause death or grievous hurt), five years each for offences under Section 324 (attempted murder), possession of an illegal weapon, and terrorism charges, and one year for the offence under Section 353 (assault or criminal force to deter public servant from discharge of his duty) of the Pakistan Penal Code.

“In this metropolitan city the crimes of snatching mobile phones, motorcycles and other valuable articles on the force of deadly weapons are increasing day to day. Recently more than hundreds persons, young boys, men and women have been murdered during snatching mobile phones, motorcycles and valuable articles from them.

“It has also been observed that during the course of encounter police personnel have been also murdered by the accused persons. In such circumstances of law and order situation, if the criminals are not punished in such type of cases, the crime ratio shall be increased in future. Crime thrives in society where there is no deterrence,” the judge observed.

The court also imposed a total fine of Rs200,000; on default, he would serve additional imprisonment.

According to the prosecution, on April 12, police constables Waqar and Umer Khan were heading to the SIU/CIA office on their motorcycle for duty when two street criminals intercepted them near Iron Bridge, main National Highway, Quaidabad, Malir, and attempted to snatch their mobile phones and other valuables at gunpoint. However, when Waqar resisted, the accused opened fire, injuring him. In retaliation, one of the robbers also sustained a bullet wound to his shoulder.

After hearing the gunfire, local residents gathered at the spot and assisted the policemen in apprehending the accused. During the scuffle, one of the accused, Allah Rakha, was arrested, while his accomplice, Shakir, managed to flee.

In its detailed order, the court noted that the investigating officer had submitted the previous criminal record of the accused. However, the accused contended that he had been acquitted in those cases.

The court observed that each criminal case is to be decided on its own facts, circumstances, and merits. It further remarked that the criminal record of the accused reflected his mens rea and inclination towards committing offences against the state and society.

Published in Dawn, October 31st, 2025