KARACHI: Police in Karachi’s Central District have solved one of the largest robbery cases of 2026 by arresting the alleged mastermind behind a Rs300 million cash van heist and recovering Rs200 million from the looted amount.

According to police officials, the robbery took place on June 12 within the jurisdiction of Joharabad Police Station, where a group of armed suspects intercepted a cash van transporting funds to a bank and escaped with approximately Rs300 million. The incident was considered one of the most significant cash robberies in the city’s recent history.

Investigators initially arrested three suspects linked to the crime. During interrogation, they identified the alleged mastermind as Muhammad Ali, also known as “Langra,” who was reportedly responsible for planning and coordinating the operation.

Acting on intelligence gathered during the investigation, police arrested Muhammad Ali and recovered Rs200 million of the stolen cash. Authorities also seized a Vigo pickup truck and a Pixis car allegedly used during the robbery.

The investigation was conducted by a special team formed by DIG West Zone Irfan Baloch under the supervision of SSP Central Dr. Muhammad Imran Khan. Police officials credited the team’s professional efforts for solving the high-profile case within days.

Further investigations revealed the involvement of an insider. The chief crew member of the security company’s cash van, identified as Wajid, son of Mir Lala, was allegedly found to be part of the robbery plot. Police registered a case against him after collecting evidence linking him to the crime.

Authorities stated that Muhammad Ali had allegedly hidden the stolen money at two separate residences following the robbery. Investigators believe the gang consists of more than a dozen members and has been involved in numerous bank robbery cases across Pakistan.

Police said the group has operated in major cities including Karachi, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Quetta, and Multan for several years. Muhammad Ali is described as the Karachi-based leader of the network, while other members are reportedly active in different parts of the country.

According to investigators, the suspect originally belongs to Swat but has been living in Karachi for an extended period. He has previously been arrested in multiple criminal cases, including bank robberies, theft of valuables from lockers, and cash and foreign currency theft.

Police said several accomplices, believed to be from Parachinar and Kurram District in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remain at large along with the remaining stolen money. Special teams have been formed to trace and arrest the fugitives and recover the outstanding amount.