Karachi’s business community has raised serious concerns over growing extortion cases. Business leaders say foreign-based gangs are targeting traders and builders. They warn the situation is damaging confidence and slowing economic activity in the city. Calls for urgent government action are growing louder.
Speaking on a television programme, representatives described a well-organised network. They said the threat has become more dangerous with time. Many fear the problem could worsen if ignored.
Extortion Network Becomes More Organised
Mohammed Hassan Bakshi, Chairman of the Association of Builders and Developers of Pakistan, shared alarming details. He said businessmen first receive written extortion demands. These are followed by threatening phone calls. Later, attackers open fire on offices to spread fear.
According to Bakshi, violence has escalated further. Some incidents have resulted in loss of lives. He said authorities in Pakistan have already been informed. However, fear continues to spread among traders and developers.
Bakshi revealed that extortionists have now entered what he called a second phase. He said the callers are using Iranian phone numbers. This has raised concerns about foreign involvement. Builders are told they can continue projects if they pay money in instalments over four years.
The extortionists even offer modern payment methods. Bitcoin is being promoted for transfers. In some cases, victims are told to arrange cash pickups through local contacts. This level of planning has shocked the business community.
Business Community Feels Abandoned
Bakshi said these criminals act with confidence. He noted that unlike common criminals, they do not disappear quickly. He questioned why Red Warrants are not being issued. He alleged that a small group linked to the Lyari Gang War is behind much of the trouble.
He shared that only 10 cases are officially reported. However, he believes many more exist. Between 25 and 40 Abad members are reportedly paying extortion money regularly. Countless small shopkeepers in older city areas are also affected.
Quoting the Karachi Chamber of Commerce president, Bakshi added more details. He said extortionists even provide Pakistani bank accounts. Small traders are asked to deposit money locally. Larger businessmen are directed to use Bitcoin or cash collectors.
Warnings of Shutdown and Political Response
Bakshi said Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has assured support. He promised to raise the issue with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi. Bakshi stressed that extortion is not limited to large businesses. Small shopkeepers are equally vulnerable.
He warned that security is a constitutional right. Without it, no investor will risk money. He said Karachi’s position as Pakistan’s economic engine is under threat. He also noted that such issues are not seen in Islamabad or Lahore.
Earlier, the business community issued a strong warning. They said business activities may shut down after January 15, 2026. This will happen if authorities fail to control extortion.
Meanwhile, MQM-P lawmaker Taha Ahmed Khan has written to the chief minister. He called for immediate measures to protect businesses. He urged inclusion of elected representatives in security planning. He also demanded faster implementation of the Safe City project and intelligence-based operations.
