Business leaders lament law and order situation

Appeal to Sindh Rangers, police to launch joint operations against street crimes

KARACHI:

Business leaders in Karachi have called on law enforcement agencies (LEAs) to collaborate in combating escalating street crimes, extortion attempts via phone calls, and threats. Simultaneously, the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has announced the revival of the Rangers Monitoring and Complaint Cell to address the deteriorating law and order situation, particularly in anticipation of the upcoming general elections.

Expressing serious concerns over the growing criminal activities in the city, All Karachi Tajir Ittehad (AKTI), Chairman, Atiq Mir told the Express Tribune that it had appealed to Sindh Rangers and the police to launch joint operations against street crimes and thuggish acts, drawing parallels with successful crackdowns in 2013. Mir noted a shift in extortion dynamics, highlighting that individuals, rather than gangs, are now making extortion demands. He also acknowledged recent police successes in apprehending some culprits.

KCCI President Iftikhar Ahmed Sheikh announced the reactivation of the Rangers Monitoring and Complaint Cell at the chamber’s premises. This initiative, made possible through efforts led by KCCI’s leadership, is aimed at providing relief to distressed businessmen and industrialists who have reported receiving extortion threats.

Read Rs160b set aside for law and order in Sindh

Sheikh extended gratitude to Major General Azhar Waqas, Director General of Pakistan Rangers Sindh, for facilitating the deployment of two Rangers officials from 9:00AM to 5:00PM daily. This measure aims to support the business community in dealing with the escalating law-and-order challenges. Sheikh stressed the importance of the cell, working alongside the already-operational Police Chamber Liaison Committee (PCLC), in providing assistance to those facing threats. He assured complainants that their identities would be strictly confidential.

Highlighting the overall unfavourable business environment, Sheikh pointed out various challenges, including taxation, infrastructure issues, law and order concerns, and high energy tariffs. Despite these challenges, KCCI is committed to addressing issues such as the Bhatta Mafia (extortionists), consulting with top institutional leaders during this critical period.

Alliance of Arambagh Markets Association, Chairman, Asif Gulfam echoed the economic challenges faced by traders and shopkeepers. He underscored the need for police and Rangers deployment at all commercial markets in Karachi to ensure a safe environment for business operations. Additionally, Gulfam called for the immediate installation of street lights in Urdu Bazaar and other markets to curb street crimes. The collective efforts of business leaders and LEAs are crucial in restoring safety and security, fostering a conducive environment for business activities in Karachi.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 12^th, 2024.

Like Business on Facebook, follow @TribuneBiz on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.