27 dacoits killed, 123 arrested in major katcha crackdown: IGP Sindh

IG Sindh, Javed Alam Odho announced that police have carried out 113 encounters in the past month.

The encounters were a part of the ongoing operation in the katcha belt and resulted in killing 27 dacoits, wounding 82 and arresting 123 suspects.

Addressing the media, Odho said the katcha remained a hub for various crimes, with gangs involved in kidnapping for ransom, honey-trapping and other violent crimes. 

Furthermore, he claimed that the gangs had occupied state land to use as a base for crime and used ransom money to acquire war-grade weapons. He added that these criminal groups openly challenged state authority through videos and threats against law enforcement. 

Moreover, police have rescued 15 abductees, some held for up to three years, Odho added. Some dacoits even surrendered under pressure. “Those who surrender will receive justice; those who refuse will be dealt with firmly,” the IGP said. 

Remaining hostages, he said, are in the process of being released as operations continue. 

The IG referred the successful operation as “moral victory” and said no part of katcha would remain a “no-go zone”. 

He claimed that enhanced coordination with Punjab police, rangers and other agencies, along with aerial surveillance, will further support the massive operation.