A bizarre and shocking case of domestic theft has emerged from the posh Defence area of Karachi, where a supposed housemaid allegedly stole Rs50 million and lived a life of luxury, baffling police investigators.

According to police officials, the suspect, identified as Shahnaz, was working as a domestic helper in a bungalow located in Khayaban-e-Tanzeem, one of the most expensive neighbourhoods in Defence. The house belongs to a businessman currently residing abroad.

The theft came to light after an anonymous tip from a neighbour alerted the homeowner’s relatives that the housemaid was living far beyond her means. “She would dress as a modest maid in the morning and shop like a queen at luxury stores in the evening,” said Senior Investigation Officer Muhammad Saeed.

Following an investigation, it was discovered that Rs50 million had been stolen from the house. The stolen funds were allegedly used by Shahnaz to purchase three flats, five cars, three motorcycles, and even a retail shop.

Police crackdown and arrests

The Clifton Police registered a case against Shahnaz at the Clifton Police Station on the complaint of the homeowner’s female relative. Shahnaz was arrested and presented in Karachi City Court, which has granted her three-day physical remand.

Further investigations revealed that Shahnaz was not acting alone but was part of an organized gang. The court also approved the police remand of two other suspects, identified as Asif and Hammad, until June 28. According to the investigation officer, Asif is the son of Shahnaz, and was actively involved in the operation.

Authorities are now conducting raids to apprehend other members of the gang, including Naseem and Mohsin, who remain absconding.

“This was not just theft -- it was a well-coordinated, mafia-style operation. The gang was systematically looting high-end homes under the guise of domestic help,” said the investigating officer.