According to a Dawn News report on 25th January, a constitutional bench of the Sindh High Court (SHC) has issued notices to several key authorities, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, over a petition filed by six Chinese nationals. The petitioners have accused the Sindh police of harassment and placing restrictions on their movement under the pretext of “security issues.”
The two-member bench, consisting of Justice Mohammad Karim Khan Agha and Justice Adnan-ul-Karim Memon, also served notices to the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan, the Karachi Consulate, and both federal and provincial law officers. The case has been adjourned for four weeks, pending further proceedings.
The petitioners—Mr. Xu Hui, Ms. Deng Huan, and four others—claimed they came to Pakistan legally, investing significant resources in various businesses. They argued that instead of being provided a secure environment, they were subjected to harassment, extortion, and restrictions. They alleged that police officers stationed at their residences would detain them unjustly and only allow them to leave after paying bribes ranging between Rs30,000 and Rs50,000.
The petition further highlighted incidents such as police throwing stones at their vehicles, smashing windows, and obstructing their business activities. Seven industrial units belonging to other Chinese businessmen were reportedly sealed without notice by Sukhan police under vague “security” reasons, forcing some entrepreneurs to consider relocating to Lahore or leaving Pakistan altogether.
The petitioners also recounted challenges at the airport, where they alleged bribes were demanded despite having complete documentation. Additionally, they said they were forced to pay for expensive bulletproof vehicles before being allowed to leave for their destinations.
In one case, a theft involving Rs2 million occurred at one of the petitioners’ homes in October 2024. However, the police allegedly refused to register an FIR and unlawfully detained their translators. Complaints raised with higher authorities reportedly went unanswered, exacerbating the situation.
The petitioners argued that these actions violated their fundamental rights under Pakistan’s Constitution and international investor protection commitments. They urged the SHC to declare the restrictions and harassment illegal, direct authorities to ensure their lawful movement and safety, and conduct a high-level inquiry against the officials involved. They further called for strict punitive actions to be taken against those found guilty.
The SHC has now asked the chief secretary of Sindh, the provincial home secretary, the inspector general of Sindh police, and other senior officials to respond to the petition. A follow-up hearing is expected in the coming weeks.
