KARACHI has a huge presence of armed gangs. These gangs are called rifle groups as they use Kalashnikovs, ride motorcycles and operate as teams. They do not just snatch things; they surround people, block traffic and rob everyone. After the fast- paced, activity, they disappear into Karachi’s busy streets. This happens in areas like Surjani Town, Orangi, Korangi, Lyari, Gulistan-i-Jauhar and others. No neighbourhood is actually safe.

The impact of these robberies goes beyond losing things. People are trauma-tised after such incidents. Women get hurt as their jewellery gets snatched. Those who try to stop the robbers are shot or injured. These gangs are getting stronger because of an inefficient police. By the time a police contingent arrives, the robbers are already gone. They know the escape routes and are more prepared than the officials. People who witness the robberies are too scared to cooperate with the police.

These rifle groups come together, break apart and come together again based on chances and police action. What Karachi really needs is for police to be out on the streets regularly to protect the people and to fix the system.

A city of 20 million individuals, which contributes rather significantly to the national economy, should have safe streets where people may move around freely.

Marrium Khan
Karachi

Published in Dawn, June 3rd, 2026