ISLAMABAD – German cyclist Philipp Saam, who is traveling the world, faced setback in Islamabad when his high-value bicycle and camera were stolen while he camped overnight near the Islamabad Expressway.
Saam was robbed while camping overnight near Islamabad Expressway. His high-value bicycle, worth around Rs1 million (over $3,600), along with his camera, were stolen, sending shockwaves through the international traveler community.
اسلام آباد پولیس نے بروقت ایکشن لیتے ہوئے جرمن سیاح سے چوری ہونے والی قیمتی سائیکل اور سامان کو قلیل میں برآمد کر لیا۔ غیر ملکی سیاح نے پولیس کی فوری کارروائی کو خوب سراہتے ہوئے مثبت تاثرات اور نہایت خوشی کا اظہار کیا۔#WeRIslamabadPolice #Islamabad #OPS pic.twitter.com/fVtXoGE4ht
— Islamabad Police (@ICT_Police) April 3, 2026
Saam pitched his tent within the jurisdiction of the Khanna police station. The theft was discovered the next morning, and initial reports suggest that federal police response was slow, leaving the cyclist stranded and concerned about the security of travelers in the city.
The situation took dramatic turn after German Embassy in Islamabad intervened. After diplomatic involvement, authorities quickly launched targeted operation and successfully recovered the stolen items from the Orchard Scheme area. Both the bicycle and camera were returned to Saam, bringing relief to the cyclist and international observers alike.
Officials said the incident highlights broader concerns about safety for foreign visitors, while also demonstrating how prompt diplomatic coordination can help resolve high-profile cases effectively.
