Man Caught Stealing Vegetables from Sabzi Mandi in Quetta
Quetta – July 1, 2025:
In a surprising incident on Monday morning, a man was caught red-handed while stealing vegetables from the Sabzi Mandi (vegetable market) in Quetta. The man, who appeared to be in his mid-thirties, was seen secretly loading vegetables into a sack and trying to escape without paying. Local vendors quickly noticed the theft and caught him before he could flee the area.
This unusual event has raised many questions about rising poverty, lack of jobs, and increasing food prices in the region. While some consider the act as pure theft, others view it as a result of difficult living conditions.
Incident Details
According to eyewitnesses, the theft happened around 7:00 AM when the market was busy with buyers and sellers. The accused man was acting suspiciously, moving around different stalls and pretending to inspect the vegetables. One vendor noticed that he was quietly stuffing vegetables into a large bag and not interacting with any sellers.
“He was not behaving like a normal customer,” said Javed Khan, a local vendor. “He kept looking around and picking vegetables without asking. Then he tried to walk away without paying anyone.”
Several vendors confronted the man, and when they opened his sack, it was filled with potatoes, onions, and tomatoes. The police were immediately called, and the man was handed over to them.
Police Statement
The local police confirmed that the man was taken into custody for questioning. An officer at the scene said:
“We received a report of vegetable theft and responded immediately. The man was caught by the shopkeepers, and we are investigating whether this was a one-time act or part of a larger problem.”
Police also mentioned that the man did not resist arrest and remained silent when questioned. His identity is being kept confidential while the investigation continues.
Reaction from the Market Community
Shopkeepers at Quetta’s Sabzi Mandi voiced their worries after the incident took place. Many said it was not the first time someone had tried to steal vegetables, but it was rare to catch someone in the act.
“This is not just about theft,” said Abdul Raheem, a long-time vegetable seller. “People are hungry. Prices are going up. Maybe he stole because he had no choice.”
Some vendors showed sympathy toward the thief, asking the police to deal with the situation gently. Others, however, demanded stricter security to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Rising Food Prices in Pakistan
One of the main concerns linked with this case is the rising cost of vegetables and other food items in Pakistan. Over the past few months, inflation has made it harder for low-income families to afford basic necessities.
For example:
- Potatoes that once cost Rs. 40 per kg are now around Rs. 80.
- Tomatoes have jumped from Rs. 60 to Rs. 120 per kg.
- Onions are being sold for over Rs. 100 per kg.
These price hikes are forcing many people to cut down on daily food items or find cheaper alternatives. In some cases, it may push desperate individuals toward petty crimes.
Public Reaction
The story of the vegetable thief spread quickly on social media. Many users debated whether the man should be punished or helped.
One user wrote:
“It’s sad that someone has to steal vegetables in 2025. This shows how bad things have become for poor families.”
Another said:
“Stealing is still a crime. If everyone starts taking things for free, what will happen to the sellers?”
The incident has sparked a wider discussion about poverty, unemployment, and the need for stronger social welfare programs in the country.
Experts’ Opinions
Social workers and economists believe that this incident is a reflection of a larger issue.
Dr. Shazia Malik, a professor of sociology, said:
“Stealing food is rarely driven by greed—it’s usually a sign of desperation. It’s important to understand the root causes and find ways to stop it. Economic relief, job creation, and food support programs are the need of the hour.”
What Can Be Done?
To prevent such incidents and support struggling families, experts and citizens are calling for the following steps:
- Strengthening Welfare Programs: Government programs like BISP and Ehsaas should be expanded to cover more needy families.
- Price Control Measures: Authorities must monitor and control the prices of basic food items.
- Support for Small Vendors: Sabzi Mandi vendors also face losses when thefts occur. They should be supported with better security.
- Public Kitchens (Langar Khanas): Setting up free food centers in major cities can help feed the poor and reduce food-related crimes.
- Awareness and Counseling: People facing hunger or unemployment should have access to help rather than turning to crime.
Conclusion
The arrest of a man for stealing vegetables in Quetta’s Sabzi Mandi may seem like a small crime, but it reveals the harsh realities many people are facing today. Rising inflation, food insecurity, and lack of opportunities are pushing ordinary citizens to make desperate choices.
