Thursday 25th April 2024
The crime rate in Kathmandu Valley has increased exponentially ever since the Nepali Government has relaxed the lockdown restrictions to revive the economic activities.
Earlier on March 24, the government has imposed a nationwide lockdown to prevent the coronavirus spread. During nearly three months of stringent lockdown, the crime rate in Kathmandu Valley had decreased significantly.
However, the crime rate started increasing as soon as the lockdown was eased on June 10.
According to the Metropolitan Police Office, Ranipokhari, the Valley’s crime rate increased by more than 80% compared to one month prior to the easing of the lockdown restrictions.
The Kathmandu Valley has recorded 517 crime cases between June 15 to July 15, while only 280 cases were reported between May 14 and June 14.
|
Crime Incidents |
Crime Rate Increased | |
| From |
To |
|
| Crime against women and children |
20% |
49% |
| Social Crimes |
3% |
63% |
|
Organized and financial crimes |
22% |
38% |
| Theft cases |
20% |
57% |
| Cases related to murder and attempted murder |
79% |
89% |
| Suicide cases |
51% |
73% |
| Road accidents |
79% |
89% |
SSP Sushil Kumar Yadav, Spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police Office, said that the criminal cases have increased with the rise in people’s movement and opening of shops and businesses.
“Unemployment created by the coronavirus pandemic may have also contributed to the rise in crimes like theft, robbery and abduction,” said Sushil.
The authorities also anticipate a further rise in criminal cases due to the economic slowdown and unemployment incited by the pandemic.
Meanwhile, there is also a high risk of many former convicts going back to their criminal activities.
The Nepali Government has released around 410 prisoners from overcrowded prisons across the nation following a Supreme Court order in view of the pandemic.
