Police reported on Monday that thieves stole 25 high-value sacrificial goats worth Rs1.9 million from an empty plot in Gulistan-i-Jauhar, Karachi. The incident took place on Saturday night in Block 8 of the busy residential area. The owner had purchased the animals ahead of Eid-ul-Adha and hired a watchman to guard them.
Malir Cantt Station House Officer Agha Abdul Rasheed shared details with Dawn. He said three to four suspects arrived in a Suzuki van and loaded all the goats before disappearing quickly. The watchman told investigators he stayed awake during the theft, but the thieves covered his face with a cloth and overpowered him without much resistance.
Police Gather Evidence While Owner Hesitates to Register Case
After leaving the scene, the police seized CCTV footage from the neighborhood. The police have already reviewed the video and expect that it will enable them to get a grip on the identity of the perpetrators.
However, the owner of the goat has remained unwilling to lodge a First Information Report (FIR). It is expected that after convincing him, the police will conduct an investigation into the matter.
Similar Incidents Raise Security Questions Ahead of Eid
This incident is reminiscent of the recent 2024 robbery in the area, whereby armed men hijacked a vehicle containing goats estimated to be worth Rs1.5 million.
Moreover, many residents with high investments in sacrificial goats are fearful of losing them only days ahead of Eid ul-Adha.
The authorities have advised locals to keep their animals in safe places and even recommended the use of lights or cameras in some instances. Investigations into the matter are ongoing, and the people of Karachi are hopeful that police will apprehend the criminals and retrieve the goats soon enough.
.
