Sindh to Launch Massive Operation Against Dacoits in Katcha Area

KARACHI: Sindh Home Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar on Wednesday announced the launch of a massive operation against dacoits operating in the riverine Katcha area, warning that notorious criminals would be targeted in a ruthless crackdown.

Speaking to the media alongside Sindh Inspector General of Police Jawed Akhtar Odho, Lanjar said all available resources would be used to eliminate dacoit networks entrenched in the difficult riverine terrain. “Dacoits will be destroyed,” he said, adding that no one involved in serious crimes would be spared.

However, the home minister said those willing to surrender would be given an opportunity, while absconders would face strict action. He confirmed that Sindh Rangers would participate in the operation alongside Sindh Police, and that assistance from the Punjab Police would also be sought.

The announcement comes months after a major surrender ceremony held in October 2025 at Police Lines Shikarpur, where at least 72 dacoits from the Katcha area laid down their weapons. Several of those who surrendered were among the most-wanted criminals, carrying bounties of millions of rupees.

According to officials, the combined bounty on the surrendered dacoits exceeded Rs60 million. The ceremony also featured a display of modern weapons handed over by the criminals, including Kalashnikovs, rocket launchers and anti-aircraft guns.

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Among those who surrendered was notorious dacoit Nisar Sabzoi, wanted in 82 cases across multiple police stations and carrying a bounty of Rs3 million. Others included Sukhio Teghani, wanted in 49 cases with a bounty of Rs6 million, as well as Ladu Teghani, Sonaro Teghani, Jammo Teghani, Milan alias Wahid Ali alias Wajo Teghani, Gulzar Teghani, Ghulam Hussain alias Namo Teghani and Noor Din Teghani.

Meanwhile, last month, a large-scale joint operation by Sindh Police and Rangers in the riverine Katcha belt produced significant results, as law enforcement agencies targeted entrenched criminal networks along the Punjab–Sindh border in Rajanpur district. Officials said the coordinated action was aimed at dismantling dacoit gangs that have long exploited the challenging riverine terrain as safe havens for criminal activities.