Karachi: The Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI) has vehemently condemned the tragic murder of prominent industrialist Asif Suleman Balwani. KATI President Johar Qandhari, along with Deputy Patron-in-Chief Zubair Chhaya, Senior Vice President Nighat Awan, Vice President Muslim Mohammadi, and other members of the Executive Council, highlighted the alarming rise in street crime, particularly in the Defense area, which has led to the death of Balwani during a robbery.
In a strong statement, President Qandhari emphasized the urgent need for the government to ensure the protection of businessmen and industrialists, who are the backbone of the country’s economy. He pointed out that the rising trend of street crime and targeted killings has made it increasingly difficult for business leaders to operate safely.
“Businessmen and industrialists are already burdened with managing their enterprises in a challenging economic environment. The added threat of losing their lives to lawlessness and street crime is unacceptable,” said Qandhari. He condemned the incident as deplorable and called for swift action to address the escalating violence.
The recent surge in street crime has created a climate of fear and insecurity among the citizens of Karachi, particularly within the business community. Qandhari expressed deep concern over the emboldened criminal elements that now brazenly target not just ordinary citizens, but also influential businessmen and industrialists. This trend, he warned, is deteriorating the peace and order in the city.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Qandhari stressed that the government, along with the Sindh police department and other law enforcement agencies, must take immediate and effective measures to safeguard the lives and properties of Karachi’s residents. “The increasing frequency of armed robberies and the killing of innocent people and industrialists is intolerable. Citizens are living in constant fear due to the rampant activities of armed criminals and terrorists,” he added.
In a direct appeal to the authorities, Qandhari demanded that the government provide adequate security to the business community and ensure that those responsible for Balwani’s murder are brought to justice with severe punishments. “It is imperative to restore confidence among the industrialists and businessmen, ensuring they can continue to contribute to the economy without the fear of violence and crime,” he concluded.
The call from KATI underscores the pressing need for enhanced security measures and a more proactive stance from law enforcement agencies to curb the rise in crime and restore peace in Karachi.
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