KARACHI, January 11, 2024 – Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) announced on Thursday the reactivation of the Rangers Monitoring and Complaint Cell.
KCCI President Iftikhar Ahmed Sheikh, in collaboration with Director General Pakistan Rangers Sindh Major General Azhar Waqas, initiated the revival of the ‘Rangers Monitoring & Complaint Cell’ to address the growing concerns of the business community.
Under this renewed effort, two Rangers Officials will be stationed at the Chamber’s premises from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day. Their primary role will be to facilitate members of the business community in dealing with law-and-order issues, especially those related to extortion and security threats.
President KCCI Iftikhar Ahmed Sheikh emphasized the collaborative efforts that led to the reactivation of the Rangers Cell. He acknowledged the support and cooperation extended by Major General Azhar Waqas and highlighted the Chamber’s commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment for businesses in Karachi.
The President spoke about the challenging business environment, citing issues such as taxation, infrastructure, law and order, and high energy tariffs that have been affecting the business community. He reassured businessmen, shopkeepers, and industrialists that approaching the Rangers Cell for assistance in case of threats or extortion demands would be kept strictly confidential.
Sheikh also acknowledged the ongoing efforts of KCCI’s leadership, including discussions with law enforcement agencies and officials to address the deteriorating law and order situation in Karachi. He expressed confidence that the reactivated Rangers Cell, in conjunction with the already operational Police Chamber Liaison Committee (PCLC) at KCCI, would provide relief to distressed businessmen.
During a meeting with a delegation from the Alliance of Arambagh Markets Association, Sheikh highlighted the importance of the business community’s safety and the need for a fool-proof, secure environment. The delegation, led by Chairman Asif Gulfam, expressed concerns about rising street crimes and the resurgence of the ‘Bhatta Mafia’ ahead of the general elections.
Asif Gulfam sought KCCI’s assistance in resolving civic issues, including the installation of street lights at Urdu Bazaar, Arambagh, and nearby markets. He also raised concerns about local police officers conducting Customs intelligence, causing problems for shopkeepers and traders.
Chairman Special Committee for Small Traders, Majeed Memon, emphasized that KCCI is the true representative of the business community, particularly small traders and shopkeepers. He urged small traders to actively participate in relevant meetings to bring their issues to the forefront and seek resolutions.
In the face of these challenges, the Karachi Chamber remains committed to standing “shoulder-to-shoulder” with the business community, addressing their concerns, and actively contributing to creating an enabling business environment in the city.
