Petition filed by Chinese nationals over alleged police misconduct

The Sindh High Court has served notices to various authorities in response to a petition filed by Chinese citizens, who have accused the police in Sindh province of harassment, extortion, and restricting their movement.

Pakistan

Attack has sparked outrage across Pakistan (ANI)

The Sindh High Court (SHC) has issued notices to Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other relevant authorities following a petition filed by Chinese nationals. The petitioners alleged harassment, extortion, and unconstitutional restrictions imposed on their movement by the Sindh police. This action comes after at least 12 Chinese nationals submitted the petition in December, with six of them appearing in court for the hearing on Friday.

Allegations of Harassment and Extortion

The petitioners, who legally entered Pakistan and invested substantial resources in various business sectors, claimed that the Sindh police have been harassing Chinese nationals for the past six to seven months. Allegations include unwarranted restrictions on movement, unjustified detentions within their residences, and demands for bribes ranging from PKR 30,000 ($110) to PKR 50,000 ($182).

The Chinese citizens stated that police officers stationed at their homes often locked them inside and demanded illegal payments in exchange for their freedom. They also reported incidents of vehicles being damaged by stones allegedly thrown by police and noted unprofessional conduct, including demands for tips of up to PKR 50,000 ($182).

Industrial Units Sealed Without Notice

The petition also highlighted that officers from Sukhan police station recently sealed seven industrial units owned by other Chinese nationals, citing vague “security reasons.” These actions, they argued, have created an unsafe and hostile environment for foreign investors.

Incident at Karachi Expo Centre

The petitioners referenced a particularly troubling incident in which three Chinese female investors were allegedly mistreated at an expo center in Karachi, leading them to leave Pakistan and return to China. They warned that if the harassment continued, many Chinese investors would consider leaving Sindh or the country entirely.

Legal Intervention and Notices

The petitioners urged the SHC to ensure their rights are upheld in line with international laws. In response, the court has issued notices to several key entities, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sindh’s home ministry, the chief secretary, the provincial police chief, and the head of the CPEC security unit. The Chinese Embassy has also been informed of the developments.

This case underscores the need for improved protections for foreign nationals residing in Pakistan, especially those contributing to its economic growth.

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