Ringleader of ‘maid gang’ operating in multiple cities arrested with Interpol’s help

In a major operation, the Karachi police claimed to have arrested the ringleader of the so-called ‘maid gang’ with assistance from Interpol.

The arrested suspect, identified as Imran, son of Abbas Ali, allegedly provided transportation and logistical support to domestic workers involved in multiple thefts. Two of his female accomplices, identified as Shahida and Gulab Zadi, had already been arrested earlier.

The Karachi police secured Interpol Red Notices for Imran’s arrest by formally requesting assistance. Interpol apprehended the suspect in Saudi Arabia where he had also served a nine-month prison term under local laws.

On Sunday, the Saudi authorities handed Imran over to Pakistani officials in Islamabad, following which he was transferred to the Bin Qasim Investigation Police in Karachi. Police said the suspect operated the maid gang in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad. The female domestic workers would first gain employment in homes and later steal gold jewellery and cash while Imran managed their transportation, communication and logistics.

Imran’s accomplices had been involved in several thefts within the limits of the Darakhshan and Steel Town police stations, police said, adding that the suspect had used the stolen money to obtain a free visa and flee to Saudi Arabia.

The major incidents involving the gang included theft at the home of political leader Saadia Javed in Defence. Investigations also revealed that Imran faced multiple criminal cases in Punjab, where he was wanted by local police.