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Sindh Launches ‘Massive’ Operation Against Katcha Dacoits: Ziaul Hassan Lanjar
Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar announces a massive, ruthless operation against Katcha dacoits, offering surrender but warning of strict action against absconders.
ND
by News Desk
2026-01-07
Sindh Launches ‘Massive’ Operation Against Katcha Dacoits: Ziaul Hassan Lanjar

Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar on Wednesday announced the launch of a “massive” operation against dacoits operating in the riverine (Katcha) areas of the province, declaring that the crackdown has effectively begun.

Speaking to reporters in Sukkur, Lanjar said a high-level meeting had decided to proceed with decisive action. “We are definitely heading towards a massive operation. You may consider that the operation has begun from today,” he said.

The home minister warned that while dacoits would be given an opportunity to surrender before the courts, those refusing to do so would face strict and ruthless action. “Absconders who consider themselves champions will be dealt with forcefully and will get their just deserts,” he warned.

Under the Surrender Policy for Dacoits in Katcha Areas of Sukkur and Larkana Divisions, approved by the Sindh cabinet in October 2025, surrender does not grant immunity or pardon. Officials clarified that surrendered individuals would still face the law, although voluntary surrender could be considered a mitigating factor during sentencing.

Lanjar praised the Punjab government for its cooperation in a recent successful operation that cleared a no-go Katcha area. He said Sindh Police, supported by the Rangers, was capable of handling the operation and that there was no immediate need to seek army assistance.

“The Sindh police is capable and the Rangers are with us. We do not think the army will be required for our internal matters,” he said, adding that modern equipment would be provided to law enforcement personnel.

Responding to reports that dacoits were using drones, the minister downplayed the claim but confirmed action against facilitators. “I do not think drones have reached them, but action is being taken against their facilitators as well,” he said.

Lanjar also confirmed coordination with Punjab Police for a potential joint operation, particularly in border areas like Machka, which extends into Punjab. He said the Sindh IG had been directed to coordinate with Punjab authorities.

The meeting also addressed tribal disputes, including the Jatoi-Mahar clash, with relevant stakeholders contacted to prevent further escalation.

The Katcha areas of Kashmore, Ghotki, Shikarpur and Jacobabad remain notorious for dacoity, kidnappings for ransom and tribal violence. Recent incidents, including mass kidnappings from buses and vehicles near the Sindh-Punjab border and along the M-5 Motorway, have heightened security concerns.

Both Sindh and Punjab governments have reiterated their resolve to eliminate Katcha gangs, particularly after the martyrdom of 12 policemen in Machka in August 2024.
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