Govt to target dacoits in Sindh’s Kacha areas

Interior minister mandates strict adherence to SOPs for Chinese nationals’ protection

ISLAMABAD:

The federal government on Friday made a decisive move to combat the criminal elements entrenched in the riverine regions of Sindh, announcing a comprehensive operation.

The initiative will be executed in close collaboration with provincial authorities and relevant stakeholders, aiming to eradicate dacoity from the area.

During a session of the National Action Plan (NAP) implementation review committee convened at the National Counter Terrorism Authority (Nacta) headquarters, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi emphasized the imperative of enforcing standard operating procedures (SOPs) to safeguard foreigners within the country.

All inspectors general of police (IGPs) were directed to ensure strict adherence to these protocols.

The committee resolved to undertake a unified, robust operation in the Kacha region, leveraging full force and fostering seamless coordination among provinces and stakeholders to purge it of dacoits.

Additionally, extensive discussions were held on equipping law enforcement agencies nationwide with state-of-the-art technology to bolster their capabilities, as highlighted in the ministry's statement.

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Crucially, the session addressed the security concerns of Chinese nationals, with IGs providing comprehensive briefings on the measures implemented to ensure their safety across Pakistan.

In a bid to enhance security protocols, it was decided to impose restrictions on the movement of tourists who fail to comply with prescribed SOPs.

Naqvi issued a stern warning, emphasizing the non-negotiable implementation of SOPs for safeguarding foreign nationals. He underscored that any lapses in adherence would result in stringent disciplinary measures. Additionally, he pledged unwavering federal support to equip provinces with cutting-edge technology in the fight against terrorism.

The meeting also scrutinized the comprehensive security arrangements in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad ahead of the imminent visit of the Iranian president later this month.

Acknowledging recent strides in curbing smuggling activities, the minister urged all relevant institutions to enforce stringent legal actions against smugglers, emphasizing the need for a unified strategy.

The meeting was attended by interior secretary, NACTA national coordinator, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) director general, IGs of Punjab, Sindh, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, provincial home secretaries, representative of NAP and intelligence agencies.

(WITH INPUT FROM APP)