Extortion Threats in Karachi Deeply Concerning, M. Ikram

Independent News

KARACHI: President of the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), Mohammad Ikram Rajput, has expressed deep concern over the alarming rise in extortion incidents and threats targeting traders and industrialists in Karachi, urging the Sindh government and law enforcement agencies to take immediate and effective action to protect the business community.

Rajput said that after enduring severe economic and operational challenges, Karachi’s industrialists are now facing another wave of uncertainty and instability due to the surge in extortion activities, a situation that could cripple business confidence and investment. He revealed that traders and factory owners are continuously receiving threats, with several businessmen being sent extortion letters accompanied by bullets, while many victims avoid lodging complaints out of fear.

“This climate of fear and insecurity is not only alarming for the business community but poses a serious threat to the entire industrial structure,” Rajput warned, adding that such conditions discourage investment and employment, dealing a major blow to economic growth.

Citing recent security reports, the KATI president noted that over 96 extortion cases have been reported in Karachi so far this year. The highest number of cases were recorded in Central District (37 cases), followed by West (20), East (15), and City District (12). Five cases were reported in Malir, and three in Korangi, while law enforcement agencies have arrested 33 suspects and killed four alleged extortionists in police encounters.

Rajput said factory owners in Korangi and other industrial zones are operating under constant fear, as recent incidents of firing at under-construction buildings indicate that extortionists have become emboldened. “The business community has repeatedly warned the authorities, but the lack of decisive action has worsened the situation,” he lamented.

He added that intelligence reports suggest the extortion network in Karachi is being run by various criminal groups, whose activities not only endanger peace in the city but also reportedly involve transferring extorted funds abroad.

Calling the situation “highly alarming,” Rajput warned that if timely and concrete measures are not taken, Karachi’s industrial performance could once again suffer severely under a climate of fear and intimidation, with serious repercussions for the national economy.

He appealed to the Governor Sindh, Chief Minister Sindh, DG Rangers, and IG Sindh Police to immediately formulate a joint strategy to dismantle extortion networks, provide foolproof security to businessmen and industrialists, and take strict action against those involved in such heinous crimes.

“The government must act now to restore Karachi’s image as the hub of trade, employment, and investment,” Rajput emphasized. “KATI and the entire business community stand ready to fully cooperate with the authorities to eliminate this menace and ensure a safe and stable business environment.”