Karachi : Sindh Home Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar announced on Wednesday the launch of an extensive security operation targeting dacoits in the riverine katcha areas of the province.
Minister Lanjar emphasized that the operation would focus on delivering precise and forceful action to restore peace and law and order in the region, which has long been plagued by criminal activity.
Addressing the media alongside Sindh Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jawed Akhtar Odho, Lanjar stated that all available resources and security forces would be mobilized to dismantle criminal networks operating in the area.
Calling the operation “ruthless,” Lanjar asserted that no criminal, especially those on the most-wanted list, would escape justice. He also clarified that while the operation would be tough on criminals, individuals willing to surrender would be given the opportunity to lay down their arms. However, he warned that fugitives and repeat offenders would face severe legal consequences.
The minister confirmed that the Sindh Rangers would be joining the Sindh Police in this crackdown. Furthermore, Punjab Police would also be involved, as the criminal gangs frequently operate across the border between the two provinces.
The announcement follows a significant event in October 2025 when 72 armed criminals surrendered in Shikarpur, handing over their weapons, which included assault rifles, rocket launchers, and anti-aircraft guns. This group of dacoits was among the most wanted, and the total bounty on their heads surpassed Rs 60 million.
Notable figures among those who surrendered included Nisar Sabzoi, wanted for numerous crimes, and Sukhio Teghani, facing charges across multiple police jurisdictions. Their surrender was hailed as a major step toward reducing riverine crime.
Last month, a joint operation by Sindh Police and Rangers in the katcha belt had already delivered promising results. The renewed offensive now seeks to target the remaining criminal elements exploiting the challenging terrain along the Punjab-Sindh border, which continues to pose a threat to local security.
