Lahore Down, Karachi Up, Crime Trend Data Tell Two Different Tales

Crime data comparisons between Pakistan’s two major cities, Lahore and Karachi, reveal contrasting trends. Lahore has experienced a significant decline in crime over the past two years, while Karachi continues to face challenges with high rates of street crimes.

According to official sources, Lahore has seen a steady decrease in property-related crimes. In the first two months of 2025, 4,686 cases were reported, marking a 63% drop from 12,739 cases in 2023 and a 25% decrease from 9,566 cases in 2024. Armed robbery cases fell to 10 in early 2025, a 52% reduction compared to 2023. Robbery cases saw a sharp 79% decline from 3,984 cases in 2023 to 853 cases in 2025. Snatching incidents also dropped by 69%, and motorcycle theft cases fell by 56% over the past two years.

On the other hand, Karachi continues to grapple with street crime despite a slight improvement. In January–February 2025, the city recorded 10,356 street crime incidents, reflecting a 28.18% decrease compared to the same period in 2024. However, key crimes like mobile phone snatching and vehicle theft have seen recent increases. In January 2025 alone, 1,585 mobile phones were snatched, reflecting an 11.15% increase from December 2024. Similarly, motorbike snatching incidents rose by 25.15%, while car snatching and theft cases also saw a rise.

Experts point to economic struggles, unemployment, and the availability of illegal firearms as key factors contributing to Karachi’s persistent crime rates. While authorities continue efforts to curb the issue, the high number of cases highlights the need for stronger security measures and social interventions.

Meanwhile, Lahore’s declining crime trend is credited to improved policing techniques, targeted crackdowns, and digital surveillance. DIG Operations Lahore emphasized that the Punjab government’s merit-based posting policy has played a key role in strengthening law enforcement and crime prevention.

Despite facing security challenges from large-scale events such as the Champions Trophy and the Horse & Cattle Show, Lahore Police have remained committed to crime reduction. With crime rates at their lowest in years, Lahore is making steady progress toward becoming a safer city.

While Lahore’s success story demonstrates the impact of strategic law enforcement, Karachi’s ongoing battle with street crime underscores the need for comprehensive policies that address economic, social, and security challenges.