The Anti-Violent Crime Cell (AVCC) and Crime Investigation Agency (CIA) of Karachi have issued an urgent public awareness message, warning citizens about a surge in kidnapping and online fraud schemes targeting unsuspecting individuals through social media and messaging platforms.

According to the police advisory, criminals are luring victims via platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and other online networks using:

• Cheap goods offers including mobile phones, vehicles, and electronics at suspiciously low prices.

• Fake friendships where fraudsters build trust before executing a scam.

• Honey trap schemes designed to entice and exploit victims.

Authorities revealed that in several cases, citizens were invited to remote locations under false pretenses, only to face abduction or serious financial fraud.

Also read: Korangi Police Arrest Two Key Suspects in Rs. 9.7 Million Cash Van Robbery within 24 Hours

DIG and SSP AVCC urged the public to exercise extreme caution and thoroughly verify any invitation, advertisement, or online deal before acting on it.

“Our simple request is this: for your safety and the protection of your family, avoid suspicious contacts, unbelievably cheap ads, or unnecessary friendships online,” the police statement read.

The campaign, supported by the Sindh Police, aims to strengthen public awareness and encourage preventive measures to curb such crimes.