Extortion, factory robberies: SAI concerned over rising incidents

KARACHI: Industrialists of the SITE Association of Industry have voiced grave concern over rising incidents of extortion, factory robberies, and the absence of a conducive business environment, urging the government to ensure protection and stability for economic activity.

At a meeting held at the SITE Association, members apprised Inspector General of Police Sindh Javed Alam Odho of the deteriorating law and order situation and requested immediate measures to safeguard industries and provide a peaceful environment for uninterrupted operations. Senior police officials, SITE office-bearers, and a large number of members attended the session.

SAI President Abdul Rehman Fudda strongly condemned the recent firing incident on an industrialist in North Karachi linked to extortion demands. He stressed that the safety of the business community must be guaranteed and pointed out rampant encroachments in SITE area, which the IG assured would be removed permanently. Odho also pledged strict action against extortionists and those attempting to harm industrialists.

Patron-in-Chief Zubair Motiwala said the prevailing atmosphere in police stations discourages citizens from lodging FIRs, adding that crime incidents should be recorded without requiring names.

He highlighted traffic congestion from Siraj Kassam Teli flyover to Nazimabad underpass, costing commuters at least 20 minutes daily. He also drew attention to aerial firing at weddings damaging solar panels, to which the IG assured stern action.

Patron Saleem Parekh raised concerns over unannounced raids by SSGC Police, Railways Police, and KWSC Police, urging streamlining of their operations. He suggested donating a drone camera to the Association to strengthen its Crime Monitoring Cell.

Former President Jawed Bilwani called for permanent removal of encroachments, restriction of heavy traffic during evening rush hours, and dedicated truck parking to ease congestion. He proposed that the first phase of the Safe City Project begin at entry and exit points of SITE area, with industries directed to install quality CCTV cameras and spotlights.

Law & Order Committee Chairman Abdul Hadi revealed a shortage of 113 police personnel across SITE PS-A, PS-B, and the Crime Monitoring Cell, with only one of three police mobiles available for patrolling. He demanded at least 8–10 mobiles to ensure timely response. He added that factory robberies have resurfaced in the past five months, while broken-down vehicles on flyovers continue to disrupt traffic.

DIG Traffic Pir Muhammad Shah informed participants that all Station Officers have been provided tablets for reporting violations. He said commuters are being given one month to adopt lane discipline, after which challans will be imposed, starting from Shahrah-e-Faisal. Steps are also being taken to improve traffic flow on Mauripur Road.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026