In a daring incident of theft, criminals have targeted and removed modern surveillance infrastructure along the Sukkur–Multan Motorway (M-5).
The theft is believed to be the work of organized groups operating in nearby riverine areas.
Reports indicate that sophisticated speed monitoring cameras, surveillance systems, solar panels, streetlights, and even metal poles have been stolen from the stretch between Sukkur and Rahim Yar Khan.
In some locations, as in parts of Ghotki district, particularly in the Katcha belt near the Jahan Khan forest, not only have cameras and solar installations been uprooted, but even the roofs of police security posts are reportedly missing. Authorities have also observed a lack of activity at several checkpoints.
Moreover, streetlights at motorway service areas are currently non-functional, while around 90 percent of newly installed solar reflectors have been damaged or rendered ineffective. The widespread damage has left long portions of the motorway without adequate lighting or monitoring.
With surveillance systems either missing or inoperative, motorway police have reverted to manual enforcement, deploying portable speed cameras along the roadside to monitor traffic and issue fines.
