Daily Times

Believe it or not, recent police data suggests a significant drop in crime in Lahore, with a 46 percent reduction in heinous crimes reported in October 2024 compared to the same month last year. This decline, based on emergency helpline 15 data, highlights the potential impact of targeted policing and strategic planning. However, the real test will be in maintaining this trend consistently over time.

The report, presented by Lahore Operations DIG, shows that the number of reported heinous crimes in October 2023 was 5,814, whereas this October saw 2,663 cases, marking a noticeable improvement. The most dramatic reduction was in robbery cases, which fell by 77 percent – from 1,577 reported cases in October 2023 to only 441 in October this year. Burglary cases also saw a substantial drop of 39 percent, from 466 cases last year to 288 in October 2024. This decline represents not only a success in policing tactics but also brings a sense of relief to residents in a city often troubled by rising crime rates.

One of the most striking achievements reported was in preventing car snatchings, as not a single case of car snatching at gunpoint was recorded in October 2024. The city also saw reductions in motorcycle and car theft by 62 percent and 52 percent, respectively. Motorbike thefts dropped by 43 percent. Such progress indicates that some of the new strategies, particularly focusing on peak crime hours from 4 pm to midnight, are having a positive impact.

The report also noted a decrease in overall property crime, with 26,044 incidents reported in October 2024, down from 31,170 during the same period last year. This improvement demonstrates a promising shift but also raises questions about how these changes will be sustained. Police officials attributed much of this success to a mix of focused strategies, including strict criteria for the posting of SHOs and the use of advanced technology to monitor crime hotspots and map out patterns.

While these numbers are encouraging, they do not signal a permanent solution to Lahore’s crime issues. A single month of improvement does not guarantee long-term safety, and it is essential for the police to continue refining their approaches. Advanced technology, while helpful, must be part of a comprehensive plan that includes community trust, effective patrols, and quick responses to emergencies. Lahore’s residents deserve a sustained and reliable reduction in crime, and this can only be achieved through ongoing efforts, transparent reporting, and accountability. *