A large-scale mango theft has caused an uproar in the Nawabpur area of Multan, where approximately 150 maunds of mangoes were stolen during a coordinated overnight operation, according to a report on Monday.
The theft reportedly occurred on the night between June 27 and 28, targeting four separate mango orchards. The incident has raised alarms about the growing issue of agricultural crimes in the region.
Suspect arrested
Police officials estimate the value of the stolen fruit to be over Rs 900,000. In a swift response, residents managed to catch a suspect, identified as Aqib Kalro, and handed him over to the authorities.
Eyewitnesses said officers from the DHA Police Station reached the scene and recovered a large quantity of mangoes from the location.
However, the situation became controversial when police registered an FIR listing only 25 maunds of mangoes as stolen, excluding 125 maunds allegedly taken from three other complainants. This discrepancy has sparked outrage among the affected orchard owners.
Residents have blamed the SHO of the DHA Police Station for exerting pressure on the victims to settle the matter privately, instead of pursuing legal proceedings.
The complainants have appealed to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and senior police leadership to intervene and ensure justice is served. They also claim they are facing threats from the accused and have requested protection for their safety.
The incident has highlighted the need for stronger measures against agricultural theft and greater accountability in law enforcement practices.
