Karachi Faces Five Foreign-Based Extortion Networks, Sindh Minister Confirms
Karachi is currently battling five significant extortion networks operating from abroad, according to Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hasan Lanjar. He revealed this at a press conference, emphasizing ongoing efforts to extradite and apprehend the ringleaders.
International Efforts Against Extortion Networks
The identified ringleaders include Wasiullah Lakho, Jameel Changa, Bahadur PMT, Gul Sher Jagirani, and Azeem. Lanjar stated that the Sindh government has formally requested the federal government’s assistance in initiating extradition proceedings. SindhNews.com reported on these developments.
IGP Memon Highlights Actions Against Gangsters
Inspector General of Police Ghulam Nabi Memon stated that Wasiullah Lakho is a prime suspect in the extortion rackets. A request for an Interpol ‘red notice’ against Lakho has been issued. Documents for Ahmed Ali Magsi and Samad Kathiawari have also been sent to the FIA for similar international notices.
“Preparation and verification of documents to meet international legal requirements took some time,” IGP Memon clarified, as noted by SindhNews.com.
Law enforcement has recently conducted several operations, arresting 37 suspected extortionists and eliminating one in an encounter. Actions were also taken at an “important residence,” leading to the arrest of eight alleged extortionists. The home minister assured legal action against individuals sheltering criminals.
Combating Riverine Area Banditry
In riverine areas, a joint police and Rangers operation resulted in the deaths of four bandits and the recovery of “military-grade” weapons. The government’s policy is now “surrender or face the consequences” for riverine bandits. SindhNews.com covered the operation.
The Sindh government has identified 11 arms dealers supplying weapons to these gangs and has requested action from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government. The aim is to curb the flow of sophisticated arms and improve regional security.