BY: Syed Fawad Ali Shah
ISLAMABAD – The business capital of Pakistan is once again in the grip of fear. A chilling wave of extortion threats has swept through Karachi, with members of the business community reportedly receiving extortion chits enclosed with live bullets, demanding huge sums of money. The Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI), in an urgent circular issued to its members on October 4, 2025, confirmed the alarming development and warned that the situation poses a grave threat to both the business community and the overall law and order of the city. According to the KCCI circular (Ref: SG/2024-26/4166), the Chamber has strongly advised traders to install high-quality CCTV cameras with sufficient backup storage at both their commercial and residential premises. The Chamber urged members to share any relevant footage or evidence with KCCI immediately, enabling the organization to escalate the matter to authorities with concrete proof for swift action.
> “Your cooperation in adopting these precautionary measures is of paramount importance to safeguard your businesses, properties, and families,” the letter emphasized, assuring that the Chamber “stands shoulder-to-shoulder” with the business community and will continue coordinating with law enforcement agencies to ensure safety and security.
However, the situation has sparked fury and frustration among Karachi’s traders, who b
lame the Sindh government and police for their inaction and failure to control the growing menace. Businessmen claim that criminal gangs operate freely across Karachi, with extortion rackets, targeted killings, and kidnappings once again rearing their heads.
> “The Sindh government has failed to protect the business community. Criminals roam every street and corner while police officers remain politically appointed,” remarked one prominent trader. “What Karachi needs is a fearless and professional officer like Saeed Wazir, who has the courage and capability to cleanse Sindh of crime.”
The KCCI’s warning comes as incidents of intimidation have increased sharply in recent weeks, with several traders confirming to local media that they received letters demanding money under death threats. In some cases, envelopes contained bullets as a grim reminder of the consequences of refusal. KCCI has called for unity, vigilance, and preparedness, urging all traders to remain alert and cooperate closely with authorities. The Chamber reaffirmed its resolve to continue fighting for the safety of Karachi’s business community and to press the government for immediate action. As Karachi — known as the “City of Lights”—faces yet another dark chapter of lawlessness, the call for accountability and professional policing has never been louder.
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