SWAT-UNS: In what locals are calling an unprecedented crime, PKR 2.4 million was stolen from the 3-D petrol station in Shakardara, located in the Matta subdivision of Swat. This robbery, the largest in recent memory, has left the community shaken and demanding accountability.
Residents say there has never been a theft of this scale in the region’s history. Allegations are now surfacing that link the rise in organized crime to the recent posting of SHO Bakhtiullah at the Shakardara Police Station.
Local shopkeepers and elders claim that since Bakhtiullah assumed charge, criminal elements have re-emerged with newfound boldness. “He has restored ties with robbers and known offenders,” said one resident, requesting anonymity. “Everyone knows who’s backing them, but no one dares speak up.”
Eyewitnesses reported that the robbers were heavily armed and seemed to know exactly when and where to strike. “It looked planned. They came straight for the safe and left within minutes.”
Police have yet to make any arrests, and no official statement has been issued by SHO Bakhtiullah regarding the incident. Meanwhile, locals have started questioning the role of the police in both preventing and possibly facilitating such crimes.
Community leaders and civil society representatives are demanding an independent inquiry and immediate suspension of the concerned SHO, calling this robbery not just a failure of law enforcement but a potential sign of collusion between criminals and authorities.
