Seven notorious gangs, who have allegedly amassed hundreds of millions of rupees through robberies in the provincial capital, have been able to remain free from the clutches of police, Pakistan Today has learnt.
According to police sources, the department has been tirelessly working to get hold of these criminals but has been unable to do so because the criminals frequently change their SIM cards, which makes it harder to track them down. The source said the robbers are also aware that IEMI numbers of mobile phones can be tracked by police, so they change their phones every two to three days.
These criminals, according to sources, have looted cash, jewellery and assets worth hundreds of millions of rupees and have also been involved in murdering citizens who resisted their efforts.
Police sources said one of these seven gangs owns assets worth Rs 350 million and as per information, the gang’s chief resides in Defence Housing Authority.
Each gang has around 10 to 15 young men associated with it who function for them on the ground, carrying out various illegal activities including robberies, said sources.
Sources said it is probable that some officers within the department might be aiding these gangs which allowed them to function without being captured.
Police DIG Operations spokesperson, while talking to Pakistan Today said police was carrying out its activities with utmost sincerity and has controlled crime in Lahore to a large extent. The department, he said, was cracking down on its own officers who were involved with criminals. He said police has in the past eliminated gangs that were far stronger than the seven gangs in question and expressed confidence that the department will soon bring these criminals to book also.