What Are the Business Community's Concerns Over the Rise in Extortion Cases in Karachi?
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Synopsis
The alarming rise in extortion cases in Karachi has raised serious concerns among the local business community. They are calling for immediate action from the provincial government and law enforcement agencies to ensure their safety. This situation not only threatens their businesses but also the overall economic stability of the region.
Key Takeaways
- Rising extortion cases threaten Karachi's business environment.
- Business community calls for government action to ensure safety.
- Fear prevents many victims from lodging complaints.
- Need for systemic reforms in law enforcement.
- Current situation poses risks to investment and employment.
Islamabad, Oct 8 (NationPress) The business community in Karachi, Pakistan has raised alarms regarding the alarming increase in extortion incidents and has appealed to the provincial government and law enforcement agencies for robust security measures to safeguard traders and industrialists, as reported by local media on Wednesday.
In separate press releases, the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (Kati) and the All City Traders Ittehad Association expressed their grave concerns over the escalating number of extortion cases, urging the government and law enforcement to implement immediate and effective strategies to confront this pressing issue, according to Dawn, a leading daily in Pakistan.
“The current atmosphere of fear and insecurity is not only concerning for the business community but also poses a significant threat to the entire industrial framework,” stated Kati President Mohammad Ikram Rajput. He added that the industrialists in Karachi, already grappling with numerous business hurdles, now face an increasing sense of uncertainty and instability that could adversely affect their economic engagements.
Rajput highlighted that industrialists and traders are subjected to incessant threats. In various instances, extortion demands were accompanied by bullets, instilling fear that deters many victims from filing official complaints. He emphasized, “This scenario is a critical alert not just for entrepreneurs but for the entire industrial ecosystem, as a climate of fear and unpredictability is detrimental to both investment and job creation.”
According to reports, approximately 96 extortion cases were recorded in 2025, with District Central bearing the brunt (37 cases), followed by District West (20), District East (15), and District City (12). The data also indicated five cases in District Malir and three in Korangi.
In response to the surge in incidents, security forces and police have apprehended 33 alleged extortionists, while four suspects were killed during police confrontations. Rajput cautioned that the business community had previously alerted the government regarding this situation. However, the inaction has allowed the problem to escalate.
Additionally, the patron-in-chief of the All City Traders Ittehad Association, Sharjeel Goplani, remarked that extortion in Karachi persists in various forms. He noted that numerous business organizers and traders are coerced into paying extortion fees, stressing that the ongoing crisis reflects systemic failures, the inadequacies of police, and the negligence of law enforcement bodies.
Point of View
It is imperative we recognize the critical concerns raised by the business community in Karachi. The increase in extortion cases signifies a failure of law enforcement and highlights the urgent need for systemic reforms to safeguard our traders and industrialists. Such a climate of fear is detrimental to investment and economic stability, and requires immediate and decisive action by authorities.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the rise in extortion cases in Karachi?
The rise in extortion cases is attributed to a combination of factors including inadequate law enforcement response, systemic failures, and a climate of fear that prevents victims from reporting incidents.
How many extortion cases were reported in Karachi in 2025?
In 2025, approximately 96 extortion cases were registered across various districts in Karachi.
What actions have been taken against alleged extortionists?
Security forces and police have arrested 33 alleged extortionists and four suspects were killed during police encounters.
What impact does extortion have on the business community?
Extortion creates an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty, which can severely impact investment, economic activity, and job creation within the community.
What do business leaders want from the government?
Business leaders are urging the provincial government and law enforcement agencies to implement effective security measures to protect traders and industrialists from extortion.
