Dacoits have taken shelter in jungle after army’s shelling in Kacha Jamal in decisive operation against Chotu gang, local media reported on Tuesday.
Troops have entered Kacha Jamal area in island on Indus River in southern Punjab. Exchange of fire is ongoing while clouds of smoke are visible in the area.
Army copter earlier today dropped warning leaflets on the gang which stated that courts would try them if they lay down weapons and free hostages.
Rangers and police personnel are also participating in the operation led by the army.
Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General (DG) Lt General Asim Saleem Bajwa had stated in a statement on Saturday that army had taken over charge of operation and cordon was reinforced in the area.
DG Bajwa said that all the resources would be utilized to accomplish the mission.
It should be noted here that curfew has been imposed in twenty villages including Kacha Jamal and Kacha Moro.
Earlier last week, police failed in operation against the gang and 24 cops were taken hostage. Some seven personnel were killed including a station house officer (SHO).
Around 150 army paratroopers landed in the troubled area while another 500 reached the site by road after the failed attempt of police.
Chotu gang which is backed by terror outfits and has links with anti-state elements including Baloch Liberation Army (BLF) has survived at least seven operations in the past.