Stern action

People living close to the riverine belt are in constant state of fear due to robberies and kidnappings

For decades, dacoits operating from the riverine areas of Sindh have marred the peace and stability of the province. A sharp increase in robberies, kidnappings for ransom and subsequent murders have prompted the Sindh government and law enforcement officials to intensify efforts to track and dismantle these criminal gangs. In a bid to build pressure on dacoits, the caretaker Chief Minister of Sindh has warned politicians and feudal lords of action against them if they are found to have links with gangs. He has also ordered the suspension of internet services in the riverine areas to curb communication and coordination between bandits.

People living close to the riverine belt and in adjacent areas find themselves in a constant state of fear due to the high frequency of robberies and kidnappings. The police have largely failed to tackle the issue as the dacoits are scattered in groups across the province and often have more sophisticated weapons. The police too have become victims of these gangs, particularly during operations in the areas where the gangs reside. The constant violence and lawlessness have paralysed people’s lives. Parents have been forced to avoid sending their children to schools while adults find themselves distressed when conducting routine affairs.

With general elections around the corner, the dacoit gangs will be looking to negotiate with feudal lords and politicians. Therefore, the interim government’s stern approach to tackling the issue is particularly crucial. These gangs have been harassing and exploiting the residents of Sindh for far too long. All political leaders of Sindh and other stakeholders must support the crackdown efforts for restoration of law and order in the province and resumption of normal life. Law enforcement agencies and departments should cooperate and collaborate with one another to speed up the process and prevent further kidnappings and killings.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 17^th, 2023.

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