Karachi police have reported a sharp increase in extortion cases over the past two weeks, blaming criminal gangs operating from abroad. Authorities said they have intensified operations and sought international assistance to curb the growing threat.
Speaking at the SITE Association of Industry, Karachi Police Chief Additional IG Azad Khan said red warrants had been issued for five key suspects. He added that the move had already forced several gang members to reduce their activities.
The police chief also confirmed that authorities had launched a targeted crackdown against the Samad Kathiawari group. According to him, investigators shared suspects’ phone numbers and other details with relevant international agencies.
Police Expand Crackdown on Criminal Networks
AIG Khan said overseas-based gangs were increasingly involved in extortion targeting Karachi’s business community. Therefore, law enforcement agencies are working with international authorities to track and apprehend the suspects.
He also highlighted the impact of encroachments on industrial areas, saying they harmed business activity and damaged Karachi’s image among foreign investors. Moreover, he revealed that the commissioner and the mayor had finalised a joint anti-encroachment plan.
According to AIG Khan, police will lead enforcement once the operation begins. He stressed that removing illegal encroachments would improve the city’s business environment.
Crime Falls Despite Budget Constraints
The police chief said Karachi’s security remained closely linked to Pakistan’s overall economic stability. He added that improved law and order was essential for industrial growth and employment opportunities.
Despite financial limitations, AIG Khan said police would continue combating crime across the city. He noted that the department would not purchase new vehicles this year because of the absence of a development budget.
He acknowledged that street crime remained a significant challenge. However, he claimed overall crime had declined by 15 percent during the past six months.
AIG Khan also said the detection rate for major crimes had reached 80 percent through increased use of surveillance cameras. He cited the swift resolution of the Dr Akash murder case as an example of technology-driven policing.
