Journalists union concerned at rising street crimes

PESHAWAR: The Khyber Union of Journalists (KhUJ) has expressed deep concern over the rising incidents of street crimes, including mobile phone snatching, theft of cars and motorcycles, and other acts of robbery targeting journalists in Peshawar.

The union stated that despite multiple incidents involving journalists falling victim to such crimes this year, police have yet to show any tangible progress. In a joint statement issued by KhUJ President Kashifuddin Syed, General Secretary Irshad Ali, and other office-bearers, the union highlighted the increasing frequency of mobile phone and cash snatching as well as vehicle theft involving journalists in Peshawar. They criticized the police for failing to make any arrests or recover the stolen property, which has led to growing concern within the journalist community. The union leadership revealed that yet another incident occurred on Tuesday when robbers snatched a mobile phone from Nasir Naeem, General Secretary of the Video Journalists Association, and fled the scene.

The KhUJ president said that journalists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, especially in Peshawar, are increasingly being targeted by both criminals and influential elements. He termed the rise in such incidents a serious question mark on the performance of law enforcement agencies.

The statement mentioned that a few days ago, during a protest by the Pakistan People’s Party, a video journalist’s motorcycle was stolen. Additionally, two journalists had their cars stolen this year, while several others were robbed at gunpoint of cash and valuable belongings. Yet, there has been no trace of the culprits so far.

The KhUJ called on the Inspector General of Police, Capital City Police Officer, and the SSP Operations to take immediate action, arrest the culprits involved in these incidents and ensure the recovery of stolen items and vehicles.