Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar has addressed the concerns raised by six Chinese nationals who recently filed a petition in the Sindh High Court (SHC) seeking protection against alleged extortion and police harassment in Karachi. Speaking at a press conference in Karachi, the minister stated that the petition lacked legal validity, as the Chinese nationals should have sought recourse through the consul general, adhering to the provisions of the Foreigners’ Act.
Chinese Nationals File Petition Amid Law and Order Challenges
In light of Karachi’s worsening law and order situation, six Chinese individuals, identified as “investors,” approached the SHC three days ago to seek protection. They alleged that certain police officials were involved in extorting bribes and subjecting them to harassment.
The petition detailed claims that the police had taken them to their residences in official vehicles after accepting bribes. The petitioners further complained of being deprived of their right to free movement and the ability to conduct business meetings.
Expressing frustration over the local “culture of bribery,” the Chinese nationals warned that they might be forced to relocate to Lahore or even return to China if the harassment continued.
Sindh Home Minister’s Response
Minister Lanjar asserted that the petition was not legally valid as it bypassed the appropriate channel of filing through the Chinese consul general. He also revealed that two of the petitioners were not genuine investors.
The minister assured the media that he would meet with the Chinese consul general to obtain a policy statement on the matter. Furthermore, local police officials have already engaged with the consul general to address the complaints.
Police Investigation and Security Concerns
Sindh Inspector General (IG) Ghulam Nabi Memon commented on the issue, stating that no formal complaints of extortion involving Chinese nationals had been reported in the province. However, he acknowledged that security concerns have led to significant restrictions on the movement of Chinese nationals residing in Sindh.
IG Memon emphasized the police’s obligation to implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) related to the security of foreigners. He confirmed that investigations into legal and judicial matters concerning Chinese nationals were underway to ensure all concerns are addressed appropriately.
Steps to Strengthen Trust and Security
Following the incident, Minister Lanjar directed the provincial police chief to nominate a Senior Inquiry Officer to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the matter. The minister also urged steps to rebuild the trust of Chinese investors in the Sindh government and police force.
Lanjar highlighted the joint responsibility of the Sindh government, police, and local sponsors to ensure the security of Chinese nationals, particularly those associated with China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and non-CPEC projects.
CPEC Security and Coordination
Minister Lanjar stressed the importance of foolproof security measures for Chinese nationals involved in various projects. He called for frequent coordination with local sponsors, strict implementation of SOPs, and proactive monitoring by Special Protection Unit (SPU) officers to eliminate any potential security gaps.
The minister reassured Chinese nationals that the Sindh government remains committed to ensuring their safety and addressing their concerns.
Chinese Nationals’ Perspective
The Chinese petitioners expressed disappointment over the alleged misconduct by police officials, which they claimed had disrupted their business operations and restricted their movement. They urged the authorities to take swift action to address their grievances and provide a safe environment for conducting business in Karachi.
The petition filed by Chinese nationals has brought attention to the challenges faced by foreign investors in Karachi. While Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar has questioned the legal validity of the petition, the Sindh government and police have pledged to investigate the allegations and ensure the safety of all foreign nationals.
With the growing significance of Chinese investment under CPEC, the Sindh government recognizes the need to strengthen trust and provide a secure environment for Chinese nationals. By addressing these concerns effectively, the authorities aim to uphold Pakistan’s reputation as a reliable partner for foreign investors.
