Hyderabad witnesses sharp rise in murders of rowdy-sheeters

Though Hyderabad Police have made several arrests in connection with these killings, the pattern of murders has raised questions about the effectiveness of preventive measures and the need for more proactive policing strategies

Hyderabad: Once listed among the safest cities in the country, Hyderabad is now witnessing a disturbing surge in murders, particularly of rowdy sheeters in the past one year. This trend is raising concerns about the effectiveness of the law enforcement and policing measures in curbing organised crimes.

The spike in such violent incidents points to intensifying rivalries among criminal groups, often fueled by disputes over ‘territory’, financial dealings, passion killings and personal vendettas. Most of the victims are found to have had criminal records, indicating they were killed in retaliation and power struggles within the gangs.

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Though Hyderabad Police have made several arrests in connection with these killings, the pattern of murders has raised questions about the effectiveness of preventive measures and the need for more proactive policing strategies. These killings which mostly occurred in public view have also instilled fear among the residents living in the neighbourhood.

As per established practices, those having rowdy sheets against them are questioned at various levels from the police inspector to the Deputy Commissioner of the Zone.

“We do counsel them regularly and tell them to keep away from illegal activities. There will be both a strict warning and counseling too. We tell them to first stop illegal activities or be prepared to face the consequences. Some of them are also bound-over as per law,” said a police official.

The city police have also geo-tagged the houses of rowdy sheeters using the IT applications to keep a close watch on them. However, it seems apart from festival times and elections, their activities are not monitored.

Though notorious criminals are being detained under the Preventive Detention Act by the police, some continue to commit offences after releasing from jails.

Police say the PD Act is proving to be deterrent on grave criminals, however chain snatchers and pocket pickers who are habitual offenders get back to crime.

“We have noticed that notorious history sheeters, rowdies, land sharks and murderers who are involved in most grave crimes once detained under the PD Act do not repeat,” said a senior official adding that those involved in less heinous crimes like pocket pickets, burglaries continue to commit offence as deterrence is lesser in them.

* April 14: Mohd.Masiuddin, a rowdy sheeter was stabbed to death in Rein Bazaar

*June 2024: Aleem, a known rowdy-sheeter from Habeebnagar was stabbed near a liquor shop in Mallepally. The attack occurred in public view, causing panic among locals.

*January 2024: Mohd Mubarak Sigar was tortured and mutilated by six assailants over a financial dispute involving the purchase of a horse and a bike in Jalpally.

*August 2024: Khaja Riazuddin was chased, shot, and stabbed in Balapur.