Multiple Hikers Robbed on Islamabad’s Trail 7

A group of ten hikers was robbed at gunpoint on Islamabad’s Trail 7, with one of them briefly kidnapped for ransom before being rescued, police confirmed.

The incident occurred on March 9 when the group had gone for hiking and Iftar. As they were returning around 6:40 pm, armed men intercepted them, stealing their cash and expensive mobile phones. The robbers then took one hiker, Umar Tariq, hostage and demanded Rs. 100,000 for his release.

Golra Sharif police registered a case after a complaint by Abdul Muqeet, who stated that the suspects spoke Punjabi and Urdu and could be identified if seen again.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Abdul Qayyum told Independent Urdu that police responded immediately after receiving a distress call. The sound of approaching sirens forced the robbers to abandon the victim and flee into the mountains.

Trail 7 has seen multiple robbery cases in recent years, including incidents involving foreign tourists. Although a police squad was formed to patrol Margalla trails, hikers say law enforcement is rarely seen on Trail 7.

Some believe avoiding unsafe areas is the best precaution, while others argue that authorities must do more to ensure public safety.