Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar on Wednesday announced that a major operation is being planned against bandits in the katcha areas of the province, promising “ruthless action” against criminal elements.

Speaking to journalists in Sukkur alongside Sindh’s Inspector General of Police (IGP), the minister said that criminals surrendering their weapons would be given an opportunity.

Responding to a question, Lanjar said that at present there was no need to involve the army in the operation, adding that Rangers would assist the police in the operation.

The minister warned that tough action would be taken against those dacoits who consider themselves “champions”.

Lanjhar said that the Punjab Police might also be required for the operation, and he has directed the Sindh IGP to coordinate with his Punjab counterpart in this regard.

The minister further stated that the overall law and order situation in the province has improved, noting that no security convoys are currently being escorted anywhere in Sindh.

Responding to a question, Lanjar said action is also being taken against facilitators supporting the dacoits.

He expressed hope that the longstanding Jatoi-Mehr tribal dispute would soon be resolved and added that efforts were underway to end other tribal conflicts in the province.