Because of bombings and political instablility, security business is now booming in Pakistan. All the big multinational companies and foreign investors are looking for security. This has become a boon for the security firms and they are making lots of money.
Security 2000, is one of the largest security firms in Pakistan. Based in Karachi, it was founded by ex-military personnel, Brigadier Rashid Malik, in 1998. Little did he know that his business would grow so rapidly in few years. Today, he has 5000 well-trained staffs in his organization. Still, he finds it hard to keep up with the demand. He has to turn down lots of requests due to man-power shortage.
BBC reports:
"I provide security to most of the multi-national firms coming in to Pakistan," he says.
"But there's so much demand for our services, that at times I unfortunately don't have the capacity to be able to help everyone.
"Today, I've had to turn down a request from an overseas firm. That should show you just how much business we're getting.
"But it's not just my firm. The private security business on the whole in Pakistan has grown dramatically over the last few years."
Multinational companies and foreign investors are very much skeptical about the ability of the new government to keep the law and order situation of the country under control. They are worried about the safety of their businesses. However, things are not so bad as they seem on television. Norwegian telecom company, Telenor, opened its 23rd service center in Karachi in June. Tore Jonhsen, CEO, Telenor Pakistan devision said that Pakistan seemed from abroad was far worse than the Pakisan he lived in. Mr. Johnsen has been working in Pakistan since 2004. The perception of Pakistan was so far removed from the reality. Yes, it is risky but the risks are manageable if one takes proper precautions.
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