Sindh announces to launch 'massive' operation against dacoits in Katcha areas 

Karachi (Web Desk): Sindh Home Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar announced on Wednesday the commencement of a major security operation against dacoits in the riverine katcha areas.

He said the initiative would focus on strong and precise action to restore law and order in the troubled region.

Speaking to reporters alongside Sindh Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jawed Akhtar Odho, Lanjar said that all available forces and resources would be deployed to dismantle criminal networks.

He described the campaign as “ruthless” against hardened criminals, emphasizing that no wanted dacoit would escape the authorities.

The minister also made it clear that while strict action would be taken against offenders, those willing to surrender would be offered a chance to lay down their arms. He warned that fugitives and repeat offenders would face uncompromising legal consequences.

Lanjar confirmed that the Sindh Rangers would join the Sindh Police in this operation and noted that the involvement of Punjab Police would be necessary because the criminal gangs operate across the provincial border.

The announcement comes months after a major surrender in October 2025, when 72 armed criminals gave up their weapons in Shikarpur. Several of those who surrendered were among the most wanted, with bounties running into millions of rupees.

Officials said the combined bounty on the surrendering dacoits exceeded Rs60 million. The surrender ceremony displayed a large arsenal, including Kalashnikovs, rocket launchers, and anti-aircraft guns, highlighting the heavy weaponry previously held by these gangs.

High-profile figures such as Nisar Sabzoi, wanted in dozens of cases, and Sukhio Teghani, facing multiple charges across various police stations, were among those who laid down their arms. Their surrender was seen as a major breakthrough in controlling riverine crime.

Authorities added that last month’s joint operation by Sindh Police and Rangers in the katcha belt had also produced significant results.

The renewed offensive aims to target the remaining criminal gangs that exploit the difficult terrain along the Punjab–Sindh border and continue to threaten local security.