In yet another bizarre incident that raises serious questions about Karachi’s security preparedness, a distribution box linked to the city’s Safe City surveillance cameras has reportedly been stolen from the Clifton area just a short distance from Bilawal House.
According to initial reports, the theft occurred near Sea Rock Apartments, at a site where the cameras had not yet become operational. Police officials said the suspects arrived in a vehicle equipped with a crane, suggesting the act was carefully planned rather than an impulsive crime.
DIG South Asad Raza confirmed that the stolen box was installed at a considerable height, making it impossible for a single person to remove it. He further noted that the area lacked both proper lighting and private CCTV coverage, factors that have made it difficult for investigators to identify or trace the culprits.
Law enforcement teams have launched a probe and are now trying to locate the vehicle used in the theft. Investigators believe that identifying the vehicle will likely lead them to the group behind the incident.
The Karachi Safe City Project launched in 2024 aims to strengthen citywide security through a network of high-definition surveillance cameras and advanced monitoring systems. The project was designed to help police respond faster to crimes, traffic violations, and emergencies.
However, the theft of such critical infrastructure has once again highlighted the challenges authorities face in protecting new installations. Officials involved in the project admit that despite the setback, efforts to expand the Safe City network into key areas like DHA, South, East, and Malir will continue.
Police have also vowed to tighten security at all current and upcoming installation sites to prevent similar incidents, ensuring that Karachi’s ambitious security project remains on track.
