KARACHI: In a surprising turn of events, senior officers from Sindh Police’s Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and Special Protection Unit (SPU) were relieved of their duties after an investigation linked them to a suspected digital currency theft and kidnapping case in Karachi.
The provincial police department issued orders for the transfer of CTD Intelligence Deputy Superintendent Police (DSP) Raja Umar Khattab and SPU (CPEC) DSP Raja Farrukh Younus following an inquiry into a “short-term kidnapping” involving a citizen.
A “short-term kidnapping” typically involves victims being held at gunpoint and driven around in their own vehicles while the ransom is arranged, which could include ATM withdrawals, luxury watches, or jewelry in exchange for their release.
Reports indicate that on December 25, 2024, a citizen was abducted in Karachi’s Manghopir area by a group of officers led by CTD Civil Lines official Umair. The officers reportedly kept the abductee moving around the city at gunpoint, coercing him into transferring digital currency worth $340,000 to various bank accounts.
Following the victim’s filing of a First Information Report (FIR), a detailed investigation was initiated. One of the accused officers, part of the CTD team, was arrested along with six other suspects for short-term abduction. Investigations are ongoing to uncover further details.
Sources within the police department revealed that the senior officers were suspended due to their involvement in the crime. The officer involved was a member of DSP Khattab’s team, which led to Khattab’s removal for failing to supervise his subordinates. Additionally, the police van used in the incident was assigned to DSP Younus, which led to his transfer as well.
The official notification stated that the officers were transferred with immediate effect and instructed to report to the CPO Sindh, Karachi, pending further orders.
A report by Khattab, dated January 3, also emerged, blaming CTD officer Ali Raza for the abduction. The report mentioned that Raza was found to be involved during the initial inquiry and that teams had been dispatched to arrest him. Efforts are underway to apprehend the accused official.
