Security agencies arrested four suspects linked to extortion rackets in Karachi during two intelligence-driven operations, officials confirmed on Thursday, amid a notable increase in extortion cases across the city. The Special Investigation Unit (SIU), along with a sensitive civilian agency, conducted coordinated raids after receiving credible intelligence regarding the suspects’ activities.
Sources said the arrested individuals were involved in targeting a car showroom and a marble factory in separate incidents. In the first case, the suspects allegedly demanded Rs5 million from a car showroom owner and opened fire on the premises when their demand was refused, causing damage to vehicles parked outside.
In the second case, extortionists demanded Rs100 million from a marble factory owner in Manghopir, using an international phone number to issue threats and sending a parcel containing two bullets to intimidate the businessman.
Officials noted that extortion complaints in Karachi have surged this year, with over 150 FIRs registered to date. Investigations have confirmed more than 50 extortion incidents, while authorities have successfully resolved over 45 cases, according to the SIU’s DSP. The officer highlighted that notorious names are often misused by extortion groups to pressure victims, complicating investigations.
The DSP further revealed that authorities have contacted Interpol regarding Wasiullah Lakho, a key figure believed to be orchestrating operations from abroad. “Gang leaders issue directives from overseas, and we are working to dismantle their networks,” he said, emphasizing the transnational dimension of organized extortion.
The SIU continues to actively pursue major extortion networks in Karachi, aiming to curb the rise of such crimes and ensure the safety of business owners.
Officials reiterated that the arrests signal a firm stance against extortion and warned criminal networks that law enforcement agencies will continue to disrupt their operations, both locally and internationally. These efforts form part of a broader strategy to restore law and order in the city and protect citizens and businesses from violent and coercive criminal activity.
