KARACHI: Armed robbers looted Rs6.5 million from employees of the Edhi Home in Karachi’s Sohrab Goth area on Friday, prompting the Sindh government to order an immediate investigation and direct police to arrest the suspects at the earliest.
According to police and Edhi Home management, the incident occurred on payday after staff members had withdrawn Rs6.5 million from a bank to distribute salaries among employees. As they returned to the Edhi Home, four armed robbers allegedly followed them to the welfare center and snatched the cash before fleeing the scene.
The robbery has raised concerns over the security of charitable organizations and the safety of employees carrying large amounts of cash for salary payments.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Central Dr. Imran, along with other police officials, reached the crime scene soon after the incident. Police launched an investigation, recording statements from eyewitnesses while collecting CCTV footage from nearby areas to identify the suspects and trace their escape route.
Law enforcement officials said multiple teams have been formed to investigate the robbery, adding that modern surveillance techniques and forensic evidence will be used to track down those involved.
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah took immediate notice of the robbery and sought a detailed report from the Inspector General of Police. He ordered authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the theft of the Rs6.5 million meant for employees’ salaries.
The chief minister described the Edhi Center as a symbol of hope for the poor, needy, and destitute, saying that a robbery at such a humanitarian institution was completely unacceptable. He directed police officials to remain in close contact with Edhi Foundation management and ensure that the culprits are arrested without delay.
Murad Ali Shah reiterated that protecting the lives and property of citizens remains one of the government's highest priorities and instructed law enforcement agencies to take all necessary measures to recover the stolen money.
Sindh Interior Minister Zia Ul Hassan Lanjar also took notice of the incident and requested a detailed report from the Additional IG Karachi. He instructed police to utilize modern technology, including CCTV footage and digital tracking methods, to identify and apprehend the suspects.
Lanjar emphasized that the Edhi Foundation is one of Pakistan’s most respected welfare organizations, serving millions of deserving people across the country. He stated that criminals targeting charitable institutions should face strict legal action and directed police to ensure the early recovery of the looted amount while maintaining close coordination with Edhi Foundation officials throughout the investigation.
