PESHAWAR (Kashifuddin Syed)Professional criminals involved in robberies in Peshawar city have reportedly changed tactics. They are now using WhatsApp instead of regular mobile calls to avoid being traced by law enforcement agencies.
According to police sources, most of the suspects arrested or injured in recent encounters revealed during interrogation that they prefer messaging apps to evade tracking. Officials said many of the incidents involve young individuals allegedly addicted to drugs, particularly “ice,” who commit snatching and robbery cases to fund their addiction.
Police further stated that stolen mobile phones are often smuggled to other regions, including Afghanistan. However, after the closure of the Torkham border, mobile smuggling has reportedly decreased. Authorities claim that some suspects attempt to bypass tracking by changing the IMEI numbers of mobile devices at the local level.
Law enforcement officials added that several robbers have been killed or injured in more than 35 police encounters this year. They said strict action is being taken against repeat offenders, and modern tools such as CCTV footage and other evidence are being used to trace suspects.
Police added that many of those involved are proclaimed offenders who resume criminal activities after securing bail. Authorities have pledged continued operations to curb robbery incidents and address the challenges posed by evolving criminal methods.
