Sukkur: Sindh Home Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar has announced the launch of a large-scale security operation in the Katcha areas, vowing that criminal gangs operating in the riverine belt will be completely eliminated. Speaking to the media in Sukkur, he said the operation has formally begun and will continue until law and order is fully restored in the region.

The Home Minister stated that the government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against dacoits who have long terrorized residents of the Katcha areas. “Those dacoits who consider themselves champions and believe they are untouchable will face strict and decisive action,” he said. However, he added that individuals who voluntarily surrender their weapons will be given an opportunity to rejoin society under the law.

Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar emphasized that the operation is being carried out in a well-planned and coordinated manner. At present, there is no need to involve the Pakistan Army, he clarified. Instead, Sindh Police will lead the operation with the support of Rangers. If required, assistance from Punjab Police will also be sought to ensure the operation’s success across inter-provincial boundaries.

“The state will no longer tolerate criminal elements challenging its writ,” the minister said. “The Katcha areas have suffered for years due to dacoit gangs involved in kidnapping, extortion, and attacks on law enforcement agencies. This operation aims to permanently dismantle their networks.”

He further noted that security conditions across Sindh have improved significantly in recent months. According to him, protective convoys are no longer being used anywhere in the province, reflecting growing confidence in the overall law-and-order situation. “Our goal is to bring lasting peace, not temporary relief,” he said.

The Home Minister also highlighted that the operation is not only about the use of force but also about restoring governance and public trust. Law enforcement agencies have been instructed to act professionally and ensure that innocent civilians are not harmed during the operation. Intelligence-based actions, surveillance, and ground operations are being carried out simultaneously to prevent dacoits from escaping or regrouping.

He warned criminal elements to surrender before it is too late. “Those who lay down their arms will be dealt with according to the law, but those who resist will be dealt with firmly,” he said, adding that the government is fully committed to eradicating crime from the Katcha belt.