Govt is stubbornly refusing to take action, complains MQM

Traders’ delegation calls on MQM deputy convener Dr Farooq Sattar.

KARACHI:

The Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) Rabita Committee has complained about the increasing number of kidnappings and extortion cases in the city.

Unhappy about the government’s failure to take action, the MQM has demanded protection for traders and residents.

The number of kidnappings for ransom has increased to such an extent that traders have no option but to pay extortion and protect their families, said a statement. The government is stubbornly refusing to move against these hardened criminals involved in kidnappings and extortions. There are enough evidences to convict these criminals, it said.

Through written vouchers, the extortionists have been demanding a lot of money, believed the party leaders. Those belonging to the business community have been left at the mercy of criminals. They have been forced to take to the streets and observe strikes to make their voices heard, the statement said.

The Rabita Committee demanded President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani, Federal Interior Minister Rehman Malik, Sindh Governor Dr Ishratul Ebad and Sindh Chief Minister Qaim Ali Shah to take notice of these issues.

Traders’ delegation meeting

Meanwhile, a delegation of the All Karachi Tajir Ittehad called on the MQM Rabita Committee deputy convener Dr Farooq Sattar at the party headquarters, Nine Zero. MQM’s Wasim Aftab and Karachi Tanzimi Committee incharge Hammad Siddiqui were also present.

The delegation told Dr Sattar of the growing activities of gang war terrorists. They also complained about the extortionists and the wave of terror present in markets.

The criminal elements are sending “slips” to traders, asking them to pay hefty extortion money and then threatening them of dire consequences, said a member.

The authorities should ensure protection of the traders of the city, which contributes nearly 70 per cent to the national exchequer, he said. The traders warned that if the situation does not improve, they will be forced to shift their investment abroad.

The delegation hoped that the MQM will play its role in solving their problems and freeing them from the clutches of criminals and the extortion ‘mafia’. Dr Sattar assured them of his support.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 03^rd, 2011.