Pakistan, Oct. 11 -- Recent reports from Karachi confirm a sharp rise in extortion cases, reviving old fears in Pakistan's economic hub. According to figures reported by trade bodies and official sources, 96 complaints have been registered so far this year.

District Central accounts for 37, while another 20 have been reported in District West. Business leaders, however, insist the actual number is far higher. The fear of reprisal, they say, still keeps most victims silent.

The Sindh government has responded with a series of actions. Police claim to have arrested 33 suspects and killed four in encounters. The government has also launched a digital portal for online reporting, promising that each submission will result in an FIR.

The int...