Not taking pressure: Protest against extortion threats

Protesters demand police to take concrete steps for safety.

KARACHI: A number of shopkeepers on Tariq Road closed their businesses and staged a protest on Monday against frequent threats of the extortionist mafia. They blocked roads near Allah Wali Chowrangi and shouted slogans against the extortionists. They criticised the police for failing to provide protection to them. The protest was staged particularly by owners of automobile shops near Allah Wali Chowrangi. It was also joined by other traders and shopkeepers. The protest caused a massive traffic jam in the area. “There is no sign of let-up in the extortion threats,” said a shopkeeper, Muhammad Khalid, while talking to The Express Tribune. “We are frequently receiving threats by extortionists. The police should take concrete steps.” Several law enforcers reached the site and calmed down the situation. “We have asked them not to indulge in politics by staging protests,” said ASP Akhtar Farooq. “We have asked them to inform us so we can take action against the culprits.” The official said that the protesters ended their demonstration after peaceful negotiations.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 4^th, 2014.