The number of extortion cases continued to rise in Karachi, as at least 18 incidents have been reported in October 2025, according to official data from CPLC.
The recent extortion cases have been reported from Karachi’s Shah Latif Town, where a restaurant owner received threats via WhatsApp text message on the 17th of November.
Police officers stated that several businesses received phone calls from foreign numbers demanding large amounts in extortion and threatening severe consequences if the demands were not met.
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Officials confirmed that, at the very least, five criminal groups are operating in Karachi, and some of them use internet-based calls to pressure their local targets.
According to the complainant, Sanaullah, the message claimed the suspects had raided his home and business. They demanded Rs 2 million as “party funds,” threatening death for any delay.
READ: Karachi reports 200pc increase in extortion cases in September
Police filed a criminal case against unidentified suspects and began to trace the phone number that was used. The officials said that further steps will be taken in order to safeguard citizens from similar threats.
The law enforcement agencies have urged business owners to report any extortion attempt immediately. They also advised the general public to be cautious about calls coming from unknown or international numbers.
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Police said that 21 suspects associated with various extortion activities have been detained. A number of them are working with the names of well-known criminals to intimidate victims.
Authorities are seeking the source of the latest threats. Investigators suspect that the suspects could be linked to an international extortion ring.
