Last Rites for Martyred Policemen
On Friday, the last rites of 12 policemen, who were martyred in a deadly rocket ambush on the Punjab-Sindh border, were conducted. The Punjab government responded by removing three police officers from Rahim Yar Khan and announcing a substantial reward for information leading to the capture of the criminals responsible for the attack.
Punjab Police Counteraction
Punjab Police have reported killing one dacoit and injuring five others believed to be involved in the attack on a police party in Machka’s riverine area. This assault, described as the deadliest by gangs in the riverine zones of Rahim Yar Khan, Rajanpur, Ghotki, and Kashmore, has prompted significant police action.
Eyewitness Accounts and Provincial Coordination
Injured police personnel, now receiving treatment, indicated that their vehicles were ambushed rather than breaking down, with outlaws lying in wait in sugarcane fields. In response, Sindh Police have pledged full support to Punjab Police in tackling these criminal gangs. Sindh IGP Ghulam Nabi Memon confirmed that future operations would receive comprehensive assistance from Sindh.
High-Value Targets and Rewards
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced a bounty of Rs10 million for high-value dacoits and Rs5 million to Rs2.5 million for other dangerous criminals operating in the Katcha areas. Inspector General of Police Dr. Usman Anwar reported progress, including the killing of dacoit Bashir Shar, who was linked to the Thursday attack. Five of Shar’s associates were also injured.
Administrative Changes and New Leadership
Punjab government has taken action against Rahim Yar Khan District Police Officer (DPO) Imran Ahmad Malik for failing to ensure safe police operations. Punjab CTD SSP Rizwan Umar Gondal has been appointed as the new DPO. Gondal, previously successful in combating Katcha outlaws, is expected to lead the new efforts effectively.
Enhanced Coordination and Deployment
Sindh IGP Ghulam Nabi Memon emphasized the improved coordination between the forces of Punjab and Sindh, including intelligence sharing and deployment of additional resources. Despite challenges in the riverine belt’s unclear demarcations, both provinces are working to enhance security and coordination.
Deployment of Additional Resources
Following the recent incident, Sindh Police deployed armoured personnel carriers (APCs) and additional equipment to aid in the retrieval and response efforts. Historical cooperation has shown that when Punjab Police encountered difficulties, Sindh’s support was instrumental in overcoming them.
Funerals and Tributes
The funerals for the 12 fallen policemen took place at Sadiq Shaheed Police Lines in Rahim Yar Khan. Attended by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, IGP Dr. Usman Anwar, and other dignitaries, the ceremony included a guard of honor. Eleven policemen were killed in the ambush, while one died en route to the hospital. Their bodies have been sent to their hometowns for burial.