Terrorism, law and order: Sindh home minister orders setting up of joint check posts

KARACHI: Sindh Home Minister Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar has directed that joint check posts of relevant agencies be established at all internal and external entry and exit points of the province, remaining alert and operational at all times. Under the Safe City Project, modern drone surveillance in Karachi will soon be launched to further strengthen the monitoring system, he said while presiding over a meeting to review counter-terrorism strategies and overall law and order situation in the province. During the meeting, relevant departments presented separate and detailed briefings on security measures, counter-terrorism strategies, street crimes, narcotics control, and other criminal activities. Lanjar said that terrorism is a lethal weapon against humanity and that the writ of the state will be upheld at all costs. He made it clear that any elements challenging the law will face consequences. He reiterated that Sindh will not be allowed to become a safe haven for terrorists under any circumstances. Lanjar also instructed the FIA to intensify action against illegal software and the online sale and purchase of illegal weapons, and sought a progress report in the next meeting. He further directed that the ongoing crackdown against scrap dealers and individuals involved in the trade of stolen mobile phones be accelerated, with a comprehensive progress report to be submitted. He emphasised that patronage of such elements contributes to the rise in crime, which will not be tolerated. Regarding illegally residing foreign nationals, particularly Afghan nationals, the Home Minister directed that individuals lacking valid documents or permits be repatriated immediately in accordance with the law. Any delay or excuse in this regard was declared unacceptable. Additionally, he instructed that formal letters be sent to all Deputy Commissioners for scrutiny of schools and colleges operating in the name of the armed forces. IGP Sindh Javed Alam Odho, while briefing the meeting, informed that incidents of theft and snatching of two and four-wheelers have significantly declined compared to last year. Street crime has also decreased; however, it remains the biggest challenge at present, and a special strategy has been adopted to address it. He added that most extortion cases have been resolved; two suspects are in Iran, while others have been arrested in injured condition. He further stated that major narcotics traffickers are now within the grip of the law, and alongside arrests, their properties are also being sealed. The morale of the armed forces and Sindh Police remains high, and all institutions are committed to maintaining peace in the province through coordinated efforts. Lanjar reaffirmed that state institutions will work in full harmony to ensure the enforcement of law and that no compromise will be made on peace, stability, and the protection of citizens in Sindh. The meeting was attended by the ACS Home, IGP Sindh, Additional IGs, CTD, Special Branch, Rangers and other law enforcement representatives, Additional DG FIA, DIG SPU, and officials from Excise, Narcotics, and Customs departments. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026