Builders alleged foreign-linked extortion threats in Karachi, warn of shutdown

The real estate developers is Karachi called out the law and order situation in Karachi. The business people claimed that they had been facing repeated threats and the situation is worse than ever before.

However, they also alleged that the activities are being carried out by organized criminal gangs, who at first threatens them for money or demanding favors such as violence, property damage and business disruption. 

 As a warning to the government and law-enforcement agencies, the developers have announced that they will halt their business activities after January 15, 2026, if no effective action is taken.  The statement is meant to pressure authorities to restore security, protect businesses, and curb criminal activity.

The Association of Builders and Developers’ warning came just two months after Kati and the All City Traders Ittehad also raised alarm over rising extortion and called on the Sindh government and law-enforcement agencies to provide full security to traders and industrialists.

According to the Abad-office bearers on Wednesday at a press conference, accused that the criminal networks are being operated both locally and abroad to threaten and harass the developers and businessman through phone calls, messages and shooting incidents.

The chairman of Abad-office in the press conference stated, “We are receiving calls from Iranian and Dubai-based numbers, demanding up to Rs50 million in extortion. Those who refuse are shot at. This is not speculation, it is happening on the ground”.

He further added that the criminals even know their names, bank account details yet no legal action has been taken against them. “Sixty cases are already registered against Wasiullah Lakho. The question is why he is still free,” he said, adding that Abad officials had submitted written complaints to President Asif Ali Zardari, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and Sindh chief minister, leaving “no excuse of ignorance.”

However, “If by January 15 the situation does not improve, Abad will be forced to shut down business in Karachi,” he added.