Sindh Government Addresses Extortion Concerns in Karachi

Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar declared on Friday that the matter of unlawful coercion in Karachi demands serious attention. He cautioned that authorities would not allow anyone to create problems for merchants or negatively impact commercial activities within the metropolis.

During a press briefing held in Karachi, Lanjar stated that several business owners reported receiving threats after they declined demands for protection money. He stressed the government’s commitment to fostering a thriving business environment.

“We will not allow any individual to terrorize citizens or members of the business community,” he affirmed.

The minister announced that ongoing police operations resulted in the deaths of four suspected extortionists during encounters. Additionally, three more suspects were apprehended with injuries.

Additional Inspector General (AIG) Karachi Javed Alam Odho reported that CIA and SIU units have successfully detained more than 20 individuals involved in extortion activities over the preceding two weeks.

He also stated that authorities documented 118 cases of extortion this year, with 44 originating from personal disagreements.

Odho mentioned that law enforcement had taken 43 extortionists into custody in the past year and are still actively pursuing those responsible for the deaths of police officers.

He further revealed a 28% reduction in street crime in Karachi, alongside a 19% decrease in vehicle thefts. He attributed this progress to improved police work and intelligence-driven initiatives.