Pickpocketing is surging at Nabatieh’s “Monday Market,” and organized groups of women are frequently behind these incidents.
These groups expertly trap their victims and then vanish, baffling the authorities.
A local security source paints a grim picture, stating that the market is not sufficiently patrolled. “The situation is somewhat shaky,” he observes, highlighting the urgency for more robust security measures.
Market-goers like Alia and Khadija are among the victims, losing significant sums of money.
Alia lost a bag containing $400, while Khadija lost $200 meant for medical treatment. Both cases remain unsolved, adding to the growing number of thefts.
According to Nabatieh police, more than 10 theft incidents are reported each week, not counting those that go unreported.
Even a high-profile robbery at a local jewelry store has not prompted significant action. A recent security council meeting skirted the issue, leaving the community concerned for their safety.
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