The Dark Tale of a Cryptocurrency Trader’s Kidnapping

A citizen of Karachi engaged in cryptocurrency dealings was unaware of the trouble heading his way when a group of individuals requested his assistance in purchasing cryptocurrencies. Despite his refusal, citing that he was not involved in such transactions, the men temporarily departed only to reappear later. Upon their return, they arrived in a vehicle boasting official police license plates, apprehended the man while blindfolding him, and a security camera documented their arrival in what seemed to be an official police vehicle.

The man was coerced into transferring the equivalent of $346,000 (approximately Rs 95 million) in cryptocurrency into the accounts managed by his abductors. After the transaction, they reset his phone and left him in a desolate part of Karachi.

Following the incident, the cryptocurrency investor lodged a complaint with high-ranking police officials. An investigation revealed that among his abductors were two active duty police constables, one serving in the Counter Terrorism Department and the other in the Special Security Unit of the Sindh Police. Moreover, it was confirmed that official police vehicles from these departments were utilized to carry out what was essentially a kidnapping for ransom.

Investigations are ongoing, and in the wake of these events, two high-ranking officers from the implicated police units have been reassigned, including CTD DSP Raja Umar Khattab who is known for his significant contributions to counter-terrorism efforts.

This incident, now subject to judicial scrutiny and a police-led investigation, highlights the grave misuse of power by officials meant to enforce the law and safeguard citizenry. The fact that this case has come to the fore, with arrests and reassignments within the police force, indicates a commitment by the Sindh police, and notably Inspector General Ghulam Nabi Memon, to address criminality even among its ranks. However, the history of law enforcement’s conduct casts doubt on the outcome when the police investigate their own. Nevertheless, it’s essential for the integrity of the system and the police to root out and discipline its wayward members.

The police in Sindh, especially those in Karachi, struggle with an image crisis. Despite the presence of numerous dedicated and efficient officers, the public’s perception is marred by reluctance to report even petty crimes due to the notorious ‘thana culture’, a term referring to the local police stations that often deter citizens from seeking justice.

The common sight of civilians in plain clothes in back of police vehicles leaves many wondering about their fate. With the harrowing experience of the cryptocurrency dealer now known, it casts further doubt on the police’s motives and actions.

The effective prosecution and conviction of all individuals involved, including those within the police, are critical steps toward building public trust in the police force—an imperative aspect of a well-functioning civil society that meets the needs of its citizens for policing and public safety.