Authorities have stepped up their crackdown on the illegal parking mafia in Karachi’s Saddar area, arresting 12 more suspects accused of extorting motorists by charging unauthorized parking fees.
Officials said the latest action was part of an ongoing operation targeting groups that had allegedly turned public spaces into “paid” parking zones without permission and were pressuring citizens for money.
The operation was carried out in and around Regal Chowk, Abdullah Haroon Road, and nearby localities, where teams moved in against individuals reportedly collecting parking charges illegally.
Assistant Commissioner Hazim Bangwar, who is leading efforts against encroachments and illegal parking in Saddar, visited Preedy Police Station and directed authorities to take further legal action against those involved.
On his instructions, officials registered 12 additional cases and shifted the newly arrested suspects to the police station. The cases were filed on complaints submitted by the traffic police, following reports of illegal fee collection and alleged misbehavior with members of the public.
Officials said the wider operation has already led to over 40 cases being registered and more than 30 people taken into custody in connection with illegal parking activities and unauthorized charges.
Bangwar issued a warning that the administration would not tolerate encroachments or unlawful parking in Saddar, or anywhere else in the city, adding that those involved should stop immediately or face strict action.