KARACHI, Pakistan — A group of six Chinese businessmen operating in Karachi has decided to retract their harassment complaint against local police. This decision comes after provincial authorities indicated they would look into the accusations, as stated by the defendants’ attorney on Monday.
Initially, the six Chinese nationals turned to the court to express concerns that their significant investments in the city were being jeopardized by police restrictions on their movement, enacted under the guise of security measures. These restrictions, they argued, were hindering their business operations.
The Sindh provincial government announced it would investigate their claims but emphasized that such issues should have been raised through the Chinese embassy rather than through a legal petition. Rehman Mahsud, the legal representative for the businessmen, revealed that they have decided to withdraw their court petition, expressing satisfaction with the commitments made by senior government officials.
A directive from the government mandates that all Chinese citizens must notify local police before traveling, to ensure security escorts can accompany them. This heightened security protocol comes in response to the tragic deaths of two Chinese individuals last year in a bombing incident.
The influx of Chinese workers in Pakistan is largely linked to Beijing’s substantial Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to enhance infrastructure development throughout the country. Numerous Chinese enterprises have established a presence in various sectors across Pakistan.
Last October, a suicide bomber targeted the vehicle of two Chinese nationals in Karachi, resulting in their fatalities. The attack was claimed by the Baloch Liberation Army, a group primarily active in the Balochistan region. They contend that China exploits the mineral wealth of the province with backing from the Pakistani government.
In light of these escalating concerns regarding safety, China has urged Pakistan to take greater measures to safeguard its citizens working in the country amidst a noted rise in militant violence.
