In a major breakthrough, Karachi police have arrested a serial offender accused of sexually abusing more than 100 children over six years, along with an accomplice, after DNA evidence linked multiple cases across the city.

A local court presented the main accused before Judicial Magistrate South Sher Muhammad, who granted a three-day physical remand to police for further investigation.

Investigators told the court it is suspected that some victims may also have been killed after the assaults, a claim now under probe.

Six-year pattern uncovered

According to SSP (Investigation) East Usman Sadozai, police received seven complaints between 2020 and 2025 from different districts of Karachi. DNA analysis revealed that the same individual was involved in all cases, despite the incidents occurring years apart.

Forensic lab reports revealed the same DNA profile across cases separated by as much as six years, exposing a serial pattern of abuse targeting boys aged 12 to 13 (with overall victim ages ranging from 10 to 14).

Police say the main accused would kidnap children between 6pm and 12am, often on weekends (Saturday and Sunday), using a motorcycle to scout for victims.

Victims were allegedly taken to Malir River areas, where dozens -- estimated 40 to 45 -- were abused. In at least one instance, a gang-rape case also surfaced.

The first FIR against Imran was registered in 2020, while the most recent case was filed in December 2025. Despite the consistent pattern of abuse, the accused managed to remain free for six years.

Arrests, accomplice, recovered evidence

The accused, a resident of Manzoor Colony who ran a puncture stall in Baloch Colony, was arrested by Tipu Sultan Police based on human intelligence. During interrogation, he revealed that he himself has two children.

An accomplice, Waqas, was also arrested for alleged involvement in one or two cases. Police recovered the motorcycle used in the incidents.

Police confirmed nine cases have been registered so far across Mehmoodabad, Tipu Sultan, Defence, Korangi and other police stations. Three children have identified the accused, and investigators are attempting to trace additional victims following the identification.

Investigation team and inter-district coordination

A special team was formed on January 6 on the instructions of Karachi Additional IG Azad Khan. SSP Sadozai said the arrest was possible due to joint efforts across districts, highlighting improved coordination.

Sindh IGP Javed Alam Odho congratulated the investigation team and announced cash rewards for officers from DIG investigations, CIA and SSP investigation East for the successful operation.

Officials termed the arrest a critical step in protecting children and dismantling a long-running serial crime.

Police say the number of victims could be 100 or more, and efforts are underway to contact families and gather additional evidence. Investigators say all aspects, including any possible homicides, will be examined during remand.