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Karachi, The Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has issued a strong appeal to national leaders, including the Prime Minister and the Chief of Army Staff, to address the escalating target killings in Karachi, warning that continued violence could drive investment away from Pakistan’s largest city and exacerbate its economic challenges.
According to Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, KCCI President Iftikhar Ahmed Sheikh highlighted the alarming increase in target killings, including the recent daylight murder of Asif Suleman Bilwani in Defense Phase II. Sheikh expressed grave concerns over the city’s deteriorating security situation, which he described as a “darkness of lawlessness” where daily violence affects businessmen, students, and ordinary citizens alike.
Sheikh cited data from the Citizens-Police Liaison Committee (CPLC), noting that 163 people were murdered in Karachi from February to April 2024, with numbers expected to rise following additional incidents in May and early June. He emphasized the widespread anxiety these killings have caused among both the business community and general public, who feel unsafe conducting their daily activities.
The KCCI president urged the government to hold accountable the police officials in areas where killings occur, suggesting strict disciplinary actions and restrictions on sensitive postings for those failing to arrest culprits swiftly. He also criticized the heavy deployment of police for the security of high-ranking officials, which he argued leaves insufficient personnel for public protection.
Sheikh called for an urgent review of the security strategy and the organization of a meeting led by the Chief Minister of Sindh to include law enforcement and business community representatives to collaboratively develop effective responses to the security crisis. He stressed the importance of restoring peace to ensure Karachi continues to contribute significantly to Pakistan’s economic development.
The post KCCI Calls for Government Action on Escalating Target Killings in Karachi appeared first on Pakistan Business News.