Interior minister says bandits have chance of surrender as police step up river crackdown
SUKCOUR:
Sindh Interior Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar on Wednesday announced the launch of a major operation against riverine bandits, or katcha, warning that those who refuse to surrender and challenge state orders will be eliminated.
Speaking to reporters in Sukkur, Lanjar said bandits who lay down their arms would be given a chance, but strict action would be taken against those who resist.
“A major operation against katcha bandits has been launched, and we can consider that it began today,” he declared after chairing a meeting to review the public order situation in the province.
Lanjar arrived in Sukkur earlier today, where a special contingent of police presented salute to the Deputy Inspector General’s office in Sukkur.
During the meeting, Inspector General of Police Sindh Javed Alam Odho briefed the minister about the ongoing police operations and recent successes against crime. He said police contingents remain active and vigilant in Katcha and Pakka areas, with bandits’ hideouts dismantled and facilitators brought to justice.
Read: Eight dacoits killed in Operation Ghotki Katcha, two dozen hostages rescued
“Criminal elements are being pursued through modern technology and intelligence-led operations, while the permanent presence of police in Katcha areas is helping to eradicate crime at its roots,” the IG said.
Lanjar praised the police’s performance, calling it satisfactory and commendable. He stressed the need for a coordinated strategy to eliminate crime across the province and said operations against bandits and their enablers would be further intensified.
“Those who challenge the state order will be dealt with firmly. All resources are used to maintain public order, and no negligence in protecting public lives and property will be tolerated,” he said.
Responding to a question, the interior minister said there was currently no need to call in the army as the Sindh Police was capable of handling the operation. He added that Rangers were already deployed and expressed hope that the bandits would be completely eradicated.
Learn more: 50 “katcha dacoits” prepare to go to Sindh
In October, at least 50 wanted dacoits surrendered their weapons under a new policy introduced by the Sindh government as part of efforts to restore peace to the long-troubled Katcha areas. Under the voluntary surrender program, the outlaws agreed to abandon their criminal activities, marking what authorities described as a turning point for a region long plagued by fear, crime and lawlessness.
