KARACHI – In a significant breakthrough for city security, the Special Investigation Unit (SIU) and a federal intelligence agency have successfully apprehended two key members of a notorious extortion syndicate and a separate three-member dication gang during joint operations across the metropolis.
The Extortion Network: Abu Huraira and Dilawar
The joint team arrested two high-profile suspects, identified as Abu Huraira and Dilawar, linked to the infamous Samad Kathawari and Wasiullah Lakho extortion groups.
According to SSP SIU Dr. Imran Khan, the suspects operated a sophisticated network targeting Karachi’s business community:
- Modus Operandi: The arrested individuals conducted “recce” (surveillance) on prominent traders and industrialists.
- International Linkages: Sensitive information about the victims was relayed to gang leaders based abroad. These leaders then used international phone numbers to demand protection money (Bhatta).
- Violence and Intimidation: The suspects were wanted for an extortion case in New Karachi. They had previously made threatening calls to a garment factory owner and opened fire on his residence to spread terror.
The suspects are currently under interrogation, and a formal case has been registered at the SIU police station.
Crackdown on Street Crime: Three Robbers Arrested
In a separate operation in the Zaman Town area of Korangi, the SIU dismantled a three-member gang of street criminals.
- Identities: The suspects have been identified as Musa, Arman, and Sahil.
- Recovered Items: Police seized three pistols and several stolen mobile phones from their possession.
- Operational Areas: Preliminary investigations reveal the gang was active in Landhi, Korangi, Malir, Quaidabad, and the Korangi Industrial Area.
Police Commitment
SSP Dr. Imran Khan emphasized that the arrest of these suspects is a major step in curbing the influence of overseas-based extortionists who use local proxies to disrupt Karachi’s economic activity. Further raids are expected as the investigation broadens to find more local facilitators.
