Altaf warns Malik over reemergence of extortionists, kidnappers in Karachi

Interior minister assures MQM chief that government will make every effort to protect lives, properties of citizens.

LONDON: Federal Minister for Interior Rehman Malik held a long meeting with Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) chief Altaf Hussain in London on Monday, a statement released by the party read.

The two discussed the deteriorating law and order situation in Karachi in detail. Other issues of national and international importance were also discussed.

Hussain informed Malik about the restlessness developing in the business community of Karachi due to increasing menace of extortion and kidnapping for ransom.

The interior minister assured the MQM chief that the government would make every effort to protect the life and property of citizens, including the business community of Karachi.

Hussain added that he had spoken to President Zardari on Sunday and reiterated it during his meeting with Malik that elements involved in extortion and kidnappings for ransom were resurfacing in Karachi and extortion slips were turning up at the doors of business community members while Malik was engrossed in other matters.

The MQM chief asked the interior minister to stay in Karachi for a while and evolve a line of action against the extortion mafias, land mafias and kidnappers. He also urged Malik to hold joint meetings of rangers, police and other law-enforcing agencies in order to form a comprehensive plan of action to rid the citizens from this menace once and for all.