A large-scale joint operation by Punjab and Sindh security forces is underway in the katcha areas of Rahim Yar Khan, with drones, armoured personnel carriers (APCs) and nearly 1,700 law enforcement personnel deployed to pursue riverine bandits.
Read More: Sindh announces major crackdown on dacoits in katcha belt
According to Bahawalpur Regional Police Officer (RPO) Ghazi Muhammad Salahuddin, Rahim Yar Khan police have cordoned off the areas of Kacha Rajwani, Machka and Ronti, with support from police contingents from Rajanpur in Punjab and Ghotki in Sindh. Rangers are also participating in coordination with Sindh police to secure adjoining riverine territories.
The RPO said modern surveillance technology, including drone teams and bulletproof vehicles, is being utilised to ensure tactical efficiency and restore law and order. The operation, he added, is being carried out under a comprehensive and coordinated strategy designed to curb criminal activities entrenched in remote riverine terrain.
He clarified that suspects willing to surrender would not be engaged in confrontations and would instead be produced before courts in accordance with legal procedures. However, those refusing to lay down arms have been warned of strict action. The operation will continue until the writ of the state is fully restored, he emphasised.
District Police Officer (DPO) Rahim Yar Khan Irfan Ali Samo said ensuring citizens’ lives and property remains the top priority, adding that full combat units have moved into selected zones after sealing the region.
Read More: 11 surrender in Rajanpur’s Katcha as police target Umrani gang
Earlier this month, the Sindh government announced a “massive” push against notorious dacoits operating in katcha areas. Following a high-level law and order briefing, Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar said the state would use all available resources with “specific targets”, while urging criminals to surrender and rejoin the mainstream. He warned that absconders and armed groups resisting state authority would be eliminated through lawful force.