Due to a notable surge in kidnappings for ransom in Sindh, the provincial apex committee, consisting of top civil and military officials, has greenlit a major operation in Sukkur and Larkana. The initiative, in partnership with the Pakistan Army and Rangers, aims to eliminate the criminal elements from these regions.
During the 28th apex committee meeting chaired by Caretaker Chief Minister Justice (Retd.) Maqbool Baqar, the group also addressed concerns about street crime, drug rings, and unauthorized hydrants in Karachi. The stalled construction of the Ghotki-Kashmore Bridge over the Indus River is also set to resume.
CM Baqar stressed the importance of curbing crime to restore public faith in government institutions. He urged IG Sindh Police to enhance the policing standards across Karachi. The katcha area dacoits’ obstruction of the Ghotki-Kashmore Bridge’s construction was condemned, with Lt Gen Babar Iftikhar ordering immediate security for the construction workers.
Situation Report and Operational Strategy
Home Minister Nawaz and IG Riffat Mukhtar presented data on the rampant kidnappings, revealing that 220 individuals were abducted in 2023. Of these, 210 have been rescued, with police efforts ongoing for the remaining cases. A forthcoming operation targets 50-60 known dacoits in the katcha area and their affiliates.
The strategy involves deploying Rangers with the police, focusing on arms trafficking, and confiscating military-grade weapons. To effectively conduct the operation, specialized weapons are needed, for which clearance is awaiting approval from relevant ministries.
Street Crime Statistics
AIG Karachi Khadim Rind highlighted that while 85,502 street crimes were reported in 2022, the number decreased to 61,098 by September 17, 2023. To combat this, the committee has endorsed operations against street criminals and drug cartels, including extensive sweeps in slum areas and heightened security checks during high-activity hours.
