Sindh CM orders tough security measures after regional tensions, Karachi loss of life
Imran
• Rs 9.49 bn approved for Katcha area transformation,
• zero tolerance for crime, and the security of foreign nationals,
• Display of weapons, except by the uniformed agencies strictly prohibited
KARACHI Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, presiding over the 33rd meeting of the Apex Committee, reviewed the prevailing tense security situation in light of the United States and Israel’s attacks on Iran and the consequent loss of valuable lives in Karachi. He directed the authorities to uphold the writ of the state, improve the protection of foreign nationals, and undertake targeted operations where necessary.
The meeting, held at CM House, was attended by the Provincial Minister for Home, the Karachi Corps Commander, and senior civil and military officials.
The committee examined the tense security situation following the US and Israel’s strikes on Iran and the resulting casualties in Karachi. The Chief Minister instructed officials to maintain the writ of the state, bolster the protection of foreign nationals, and carry out specific operations when needed.
Murad Ali Shah ordered law enforcement agencies to continue coordinated actions against terrorism, organised crime, land mafias, and illegal weapons without discrimination.
The meeting was also briefed on measures to combat street crime and was informed that 278,816 illegal immigrants had been repatriated. The CM directed law enforcement agencies to continue repatriation of all illegal immigrants and to keep him updated on progress.
The Chief Minister further instructed that the Sindh Forensic Science Laboratory be completed by December 2026, emphasising that the facility would significantly boost investigative capacity across the province, alongside the operationalisation of the Counter Terrorism School to improve professional training and investigative skills.
The high-level meeting conducted a comprehensive review of progress under the National Action Plan, ongoing operations in the Katcha areas, security arrangements for foreign nationals, especially Chinese workers, and measures against street crime and other illegal activities.
Rs 9.49 bn Plan for Katcha Transformation:
In a major development, the Chief Minister approved a Rs 9.49 billion socio-economic uplift plan for the riverine (Katcha) regions of Sukkur and Larkana divisions. The plan includes establishing a dedicated `District Katcha Uplift Cell’ (DKUC) to oversee health, education, and infrastructure schemes, aiming to secure long-term peace and stability in the riverine belt.
The CM noted that improved security conditions in the tri-border Katcha belt demonstrate the success of the government’s surrender policy. However, he stressed that sustainable peace depends on ongoing investment in development, education, and employment opportunities for local communities.
Crackdown on illegal activities:
The Apex Committee also reviewed efforts under the “Azm-e-Istehkam” framework to combat terrorism and organised crime. The Chief Minister highlighted that security operations should remain intelligence-led and focused, and reiterated that the government would not permit any anti-state elements to challenge national authority.
Mr Shah ordered zero tolerance towards street crime and all illegal spectrum activities, including smuggling, narcotics trade, and power theft, urging law enforcement agencies to intensify coordinated efforts.
Operation against illegal weapons:
It was also decided to take action against illegal weapon possession. The Sindh Chief Minister directed law enforcement agencies to initiate a crackdown on those illegally armed. He affirmed that no one in the province is allowed to possess illegal weapons.
Progress on institutional strengthening was also reviewed. The Sindh Forensic Science Laboratory is scheduled to be completed by December 2026, with the Counter Terrorism School being operationalised to boost training and investigative capabilities.
