SAHIWAL – In a striking incident of broad daylight robbery, Sahiwal police have dismantled a specialized gang of female robbers who used a rickshaw to prey on unsuspecting passengers. The arrest of the four-member group, including the driver, followed a daring heist near the busy Tanki Chowk area.
The Bait and the Trap
The victim, Rani Bibi, a resident of B-Town Chak 86/6-R, was waiting for a bus at the Green Bus Stop after a shopping trip. According to police reports, a rickshaw pulled up with three women already seated inside. The driver, identified as Mohammad Yasin, lured Rani Bibi by offering a fare equivalent to the local bus rate.
Instead of heading toward her destination, Yasin diverted the vehicle toward Bhandari Chowk. Near Care Hospital, the three women inside the rickshaw reportedly overpowered Rani Bibi, strangling her to keep her quiet while they forcibly snatched:
Gold jewelry (including earrings) valued at approximately Rs. 750,000.
Cash amounting to Rs. 53,000.
Citizens Intervene
The gang’s plan hit a snag when the victim’s screams for help alerted nearby residents. As Yasin attempted to speed away, courageous bystanders chased down the rickshaw and apprehended him. He was immediately handed over to the authorities.
Police Raid and Confessions
Following the lead provided by the detained driver, Sahiwal City Police conducted a targeted raid in the Kameer area. The operation resulted in the arrest of the three female accomplices:
Samina (alias Kiran)
Sobia
Shahnaz Bibi (alias Sajida/Shazia)
“During initial interrogation, the arrested women confessed to being part of an organized ring that has carried out dozens of similar robberies across various districts using the rickshaw as a cover,” a police spokesperson stated.
Legal Action
A case has been registered at the City Sahiwal Police Station under Section 382 of the Pakistan Penal Code (theft after preparation made for causing death, hurt, or restraint).
Police are currently conducting further investigations to recover the looted items and determine if the gang is linked to other unsolved cases in the region. Local authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and avoid boarding private transport that seems suspicious, even if other passengers are present.