Karachi: Extortion cases in Karachi have increased sharply over the past two weeks, prompting police to intensify operations against criminal networks allegedly operating from overseas. Karachi Police Chief Additional Inspector General (AIG) Azad Khan said authorities had already issued red warrants for five key suspects and were working with international agencies to dismantle their operations.

Speaking at an event hosted by the SITE Association of Industry on Monday, AIG Khan said the international action had already disrupted the activities of the wanted gangsters. He noted that law enforcement agencies had shared phone records and other intelligence related to foreign-based suspects with relevant international authorities to accelerate legal action.

More than 100 words into his address, AIG Khan said police had also launched a targeted operation against the Samad Kathiawari group as part of broader efforts to curb organized crime. He added that authorities remained determined to eliminate criminal networks that threaten businesses and public safety across the city.

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The police chief also raised concerns over illegal encroachments in Karachi’s industrial zones, saying they were harming commercial activity and damaging the city’s image among foreign investors and visitors. He confirmed that the Karachi commissioner and mayor had finalized a comprehensive anti-encroachment strategy, while police would lead enforcement efforts once implementation begins.

AIG Khan emphasized that Karachi’s security plays a vital role in Pakistan’s overall stability, adding that stronger law and order would support industrial expansion, attract investment, and create employment opportunities.

Despite budget limitations, he said the police department remained committed to fighting crime. He disclosed that the force would not purchase new vehicles or equipment this year because no development budget had been allocated.

The police chief acknowledged that street crime remains a serious concern but stated that overall crime has fallen by 15% during the past six months due to sustained policing efforts.

He also warned that Pakistan continues to face terrorism threats, although security institutions remain fully alert and prepared to respond to any challenge.

Highlighting improvements in criminal investigations, AIG Khan said the detection rate for major crimes had reached nearly 80%, largely because of expanded surveillance camera coverage. He cited the rapid resolution of the Dr. Akash murder case as an example of how technology is strengthening modern policing in Karachi.