Mastung: Armed robbers looted a private bank in Balochistan’s Mastung district, escaping with millions of rupees in cash.
According to sources, unidentified assailants entered Bank Al Habib, held the staff hostage at gunpoint, and seized a large amount of cash.
The robbery took place at a branch located directly opposite the Tehsil Office. The robbers managed to flee the scene successfully.
Police reached the location shortly after the incident and began an investigation. CCTV footage and other crucial evidence are being collected.
Authorities have stated that efforts are underway to identify and arrest the suspects and recover the stolen money.
The daring daylight robbery has created panic and fear across the area.
Over the past ten years, Balochistan has seen a noticeable rise in robbery and theft-related crimes, especially in cities like Quetta, Mastung, Khuzdar, Turbat, and Chaman.
These crimes include bank robberies, highway thefts, home invasions, and shop burglaries. The increase is linked to poor law enforcement, economic hardship, and in some areas, the influence of militancy.
Several major bank robberies have occurred, including a recent one in 2024 in Mastung where armed robbers fled with millions.
Criminals often loot vehicles on major routes like Quetta-Karachi and Quetta-Taftan highways.
Incidents of armed robbers breaking into homes and shops, especially in Quetta and nearby areas, have become more common. Smaller crimes like phone snatching and ATM theft are on the rise due to low police presence.
High unemployment and poverty push some towards crime. Law enforcement is weak or absent in many areas. Militant activities have diverted attention from routine policing.
There is a lack of surveillance tools like CCTV and poor investigation systems which make it difficult to catch and convict criminals.
Police and Levies have conducted raids and operations. CCTV cameras have been installed in some urban areas. Some criminal networks have been arrested, but not consistently.
Few criminals are successfully prosecuted due to weak evidence and fear among witnesses.
People’s trust in the police has declined. Many prefer to turn to local tribal systems or community elders for justice.
The fear of crime is growing, and public confidence in the state’s ability to protect citizens is being lost.
Robbery crimes in Balochistan have become more frequent over the last decade.
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While some steps have been taken to fight crime, a long-term solution requires better governance, stronger policing, improved technology, and addressing the root economic and social issues that lead to crime.
