Law enforcement agencies conducting operation on an island in Indus River in southern Punjab’s Kacha area have warned Chotu gang to surrender and free hostages or prepare to die, local media reported on Monday.
The forces have completed preparations to launch offensive against terror organisations-backed dacoits. Police, Rangers and army troops have circled Chotu gang in Kacha Jamal, Kacha Karachi, Kacha Moro.
Emergency has been imposed in Sadiqabad’s Tehsil Headquarters Hospital while two wards in Sheikh Zayed Hospital were evacuated to be utilised for operation’s injured. All medics on leave were called back earlier while vacations were cancelled.
At least 20 police checkpoints have been established from Jamaldin Wali, Bhong and Rajanpur to Guddu Barrage. Locals in adjoining villages have been asked to migrate to safer places for the time being.
Sources also stated that the nine aides of the criminals who were arrested on the weekend belong to different political parties.
Earlier India-manufactured weapons were seized from the apprehended criminals’ possession.
On April 15, 40 criminals had surrendered after army took charge of the troubled areas.
Around 150 army paratroopers landed in the area while another 500 reached the site by road. Curfew was imposed in while soldiers were handed over gunships.
On the other hand, at least 24 police who were taken hostage last week in a failed operation for which poor planning and higher-ups were blamed are still in gang’s captivity.
Another seven were martyred including a station house officer (SHO). 2,100 police personnel were unable to tackle a group of some 100 dacoits.
Chotu gang has survived around seven operations in the past.