FPCCI and IG Sindh Police Unite for Independence Day Celebrations & Review of Improved Security Trends Atif Ikram Sheikh, President FPCCI

Karachi: Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh, President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI), hosted a prestigious ceremony on Thursday afternoon at FPCCI featuring Mr. Javed Alam Odho, Inspector General (IG) of Sindh Police, as the chief guest.

Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh apprised that the meeting was convened at the FPCCI Head Office in Karachi; and, the high-profile gathering brought together prominent businessmen, industrialists, Executive Committee members, and trade organization leaders to commemorate Independence Day and pay a solemn, united tribute to the courageous police officers and jawans who have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the nation and its people.

Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh formally opened the deliberations with a welcome address that resonated with deep patriotism and gratitude. Speaking on behalf of the entire business community of Pakistan, Mr. Sheikh offered a profound tribute to the Police Shuhada, emphasizing that the blood of these brave martyrs serves as the foundation of the nation's peace, security, and economic survival.

Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh reiterated that the business community stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the families of the Shuhada, acknowledging that every active industry, bustling market, and peaceful commercial hub in Sindh exists today because of the selfless courage of law enforcement personnel who laid down their lives in the line of duty.

Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh stated that official data for the first six months of 2026 shows that overall street crime and major offenses in Karachi decreased by 11.77% compared to the same period in 2025. According to reports reviewed, murders dropped by 17.3% and vehicle snatching fell by 24.3%

Mr. Saquib Fayyaz Magoon, SVP FPCCI, delivered an address highlighting the necessity of robust public-private cooperation between the commercial sector and law enforcement agencies. He noted that honoring the Shuhada is not merely a ceremonial duty but a lasting obligation for the business community, which remains committed to supporting welfare initiatives for the families of fallen heroes.

Mr. Asif Sakhi, VP FPCCI, explained the unbreakable bond between those who defend the homeland and those who drive its economic progress. He requested the IG police for an increased and proactive liaison between Sindh Police and the apex trade body of FPCCI to facilitate investor confidence in the province.

Further context on regional security and industrial safety was provided by Mr. Muhammad Ikram Rajput, Convener of the FPCCI Sindh Regional Standing Committee on Law & Order, who shared targeted remarks on strengthening security coordination across industrial zones in Sindh while praising the sacrifices of police jawans.

The ceremony reached its focal point with a keynote address by Inspector General Mr. Javed Alam Odho, who acknowledged the unwavering solidarity of the FPCCI leadership and paid tribute to the fallen heroes of the police force. During his address, the IG highlighted that the first six months of 2026 saw a substantial reduction in crime across both Karachi and the wider Sindh province. He noted that intelligence-led policing contributed to a sharp decline in violent street crime, vehicular theft, and robberies in Karachi; alongside significant operational success against criminal networks in the riverine (Katcha) areas of upper Sindh. He reaffirmed the Sindh Police’s commitment to maintaining these positive security trends to protect citizens and foster a safe environment for commercial growth.

Brig Iftikhar Opel, SI (M), Retd.

Secretary General