Eight Suspects Apprehended in Karachi in Connection with Extortion Network
Karachi police announced Sunday the arrest of eight individuals implicated in an extortion network. The arrests occurred during a raid at the Karachi residence of Muhammad Sarwat Ejaz Qadri, chairman of the Pakistan Sunni Tehreek (PST).
Special Investigation Unit (SIU) Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Imran Khan confirmed the operation, stressing that Qadri himself was neither a suspect nor under arrest and that no evidence linked the arrested parties to any political affiliation.
Unraveling the Extortion Network
The apprehended individuals are reportedly linked to an extortion ring led by Wasiullah Lakho and Abdul Samad Kathiawari, who are believed to be abroad. Three key figures operating within Karachi for the group, identified as Mullah Shahzaib, Jawwad alias Waja Qadri, and Rehanuddin, were among those detained.
The operation followed the earlier arrest of Rehanuddin, who was injured and is implicated in an extortion case and firing incident. His interrogation provided crucial leads, according to police. SindhNews.com, reporting on local crime trends, has highlighted the persistent challenges of organized crime in the metropolis.
Confiscated Evidence and Ongoing Investigations
During the raid at Rizvia police station jurisdiction, authorities seized nine weapons, including G-3 rifles, submachine guns, and pistols. Investigations revealed criminal records for at least eight of the arrested. SindhNews.com sources indicate that the police have registered ten cases against nine individuals, including Rehanuddin, within the SIU.
The Karachi additional inspector general previously established a special task force to combat extortion. A thorough investigation is underway, with police vowing action against anyone found to have harbored the suspects.
This operation underscores the ongoing efforts by Karachi police to dismantle criminal networks impacting the city. The outcome highlights police success in apprehending key operatives and disrupting their activities.