Following the imposition of a security high alert by the Sindh government in Karachi, police, Rangers and the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) have reportedly intensified operations in various parts of the city, particularly in areas with sizeable Baloch populations.
According to local residents and sources, house-to-house search operations have been carried out in neighbourhoods including Lyari and Malir, among others.
Residents in the affected areas allege that during the raids there have been instances of misconduct, including inappropriate behaviour towards women, the use of abusive language and extensive searches of household belongings.
Local sources further claim that personal data is being collected during the operations and that several young men have been taken into custody. Some residents allege that detainees are being questioned on matters unrelated to specific criminal allegations and, in certain cases, pressured to admit involvement in offences they deny.
In recent days, a new practice has reportedly emerged under which young men are subjected to biometric verification on the streets. Residents say that individuals with previously registered First Information Reports (FIRs) are being taken to police stations on suspicion of terrorism, even in cases where the matters are pending before courts or have already been dismissed.
Residents have questioned under which legal provisions security agencies may re-arrest individuals on the basis of past FIRs and initiate new cases under different sections of the law.
Locals reported that the measures have created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty, disrupting daily life. They have called on the authorities to ensure that search operations and arrests are conducted within the framework of the law and with respect for citizens’ fundamental rights.
As of now, no formal statement has been issued by the police, Rangers or the CTD regarding the allegations.