The government has completely neglected the interior areas of Sindh plagued by dacoits and robberies. The police conducted operations in different ‘katcha’ areas of the province but have been unable to eliminate the criminals.
There has been a rise in kidnapping for ransom, highway robberies and other criminal activities. These criminals are using ‘honey trapping’ techniques and the prospects of cheaper cars to lure unsuspecting men and kidnapping them. A taxi driver who came to Ubauro from Punjab to buy a car was kidnapped and killed. The dacoits have even kidnapped policemen and kept them in custody for months.
The minority Hindu community is a usual victim of incessant kidnappings for ransom. More than 40 Hindus have been kidnapped in recent months and released after paying hefty amounts. The frustrated community staged a protest in Kashmore-Kandhkot district and blocked the highway. The protests have spread to other parts of the province and the police are under pressure to take action. Soon after, two abductees, who were kidnapped twelve days ago, were swiftly recovered.
Sindh Caretaker Home Minister Haris Nawaz has assured that an operation will be conducted in Karachi and rural areas of Sindh to ensure peace. He said preparations are being made for operations in Ghotki, Kashmore, Kandhkot and Jacobabad districts. However, the government has still not hired police officials to conduct these operations.
In May, police conducted an operation in riverine areas of several districts, killed 67 dacoits, and arrested several others. They were assisted by the Rangers after being overwhelmed by the criminals who possessed modern weapons. The government gave a free hand to eliminate the gangs of outlaws. Months later, the criminals have regrouped and have once again started harassing innocent locals.
It is necessary that decisive action should be taken against the dacoits to ensure peace. The law and order situation also affects development and the lives of people in the rural areas. The police should resist political pressure while taking action. They must also be adequately equipped with modern weapons and collaborate with other law-enforcement agencies. If the menace is not eradicated, the region will be pushed into greater poverty.
