KARACHI: Sindh Interior Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjhar has stated that if dacoits operating in the riverine (katcha) and coastal belt areas are willing to surrender in the wake of rising flood threats, they must do so according to the law.
He made these remarks while chairing the first meeting of the Katcha Area Monitoring Committee held in Karachi. The meeting reviewed the current situation in the riverine regions, details of ongoing operations, and the government’s strategic approach.
During a detailed briefing, the Additional Inspector General of Police (Operations) informed the committee that police require modern equipment, advanced weapons, and secure vehicles to ensure decisive success against criminal elements. It was also emphasized that facilities at checkpoints in the katcha areas need immediate improvement.
The briefing further highlighted the need for professional training alongside upgraded arms and modern technology to strengthen police capacity in these challenging terrains.
Interior Minister Lanjhar acknowledged the delay in decisive action, stating, “We have already lost valuable time, which is why operations against dacoits remain incomplete. We must ensure the successful conclusion of the anti-bandit operation at all costs.”
He added that surrender or handing over to law enforcement must comply with established legal procedures, and that any peaceful surrender by dacoits or their gangs must strictly follow official rules and conditions.
Lanjhar also noted that the ongoing operations over the past seven months in riverine zones have been highly effective. He credited infrastructure improvements such as the construction of bridges in Dadu, Moro, Larkana, and Khairpur for contributing to a decline in criminal activity.
He urged authorities to expedite the construction of the Ghotki-Kashmore bridge, stating that its completion will play a crucial role in curbing crime in the region. “Bridge development on this route will significantly reduce lawlessness, just as seen in other districts,” he said.
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