Security forces’ operation against Chotu gang has entered final phase and reportedly, bandits have agreed to lay down weapons and release 24 hostages, local media reported on Wednesday.
Dacoits have taken shelter in jungle after army’s advancement in Kacha Jamal area.
Soldiers had blocked entry and exit points of the area earlier. The armed felons abandoned their posts and ran into the jungle during the operation. Meanwhile their hideouts were destroyed by army’s shelling.
Army’s copter dropped pamphlets on the gang, warning the bandits to surrender. On Tuesday, heavy gunshots and blasts rocked the area while curfew continued in the troubled area. Nearby villages were evacuated as soon as the offensive began.
Before the operation began, Multan Corps Commander Lieutenant General Ashfaq Nadeem paid an aerial visit of Kacha.
Operational commander briefed the Corps Commander over latest updates while the latter directed to use all the available resources to wipe out gang crimes from the area.
On the other hand, emergency was declared in Sheikh Zayed Hospital, Rahim Yar Khan and Tehsil Headquarters Hospital Sadiqabad. Two wards were evacuated while doctors who were on leaves were called back to work.
Last week at least 20 police checkpoints were reportedly established from Jamaldin Wali, Bhong and Rajanpur to Guddu Barrage. Nine aides of bandits were apprehended over the weekend. Sources had stated that the arrested aides belonged to different political parties.
Earlier India-manufactured weapons were seized from some apprehended criminals’ possession. On April 15, 40 criminals had surrendered after army took charge of the troubled areas.
Around 150 army paratroopers had landed in the area while another 500 reached the site by road. Soldiers are using gunships in the offensive however; the gang is equipped with anti-aircraft guns.
It should be noted here that police operation suffered a major setback as seven cops were killed while 24 taken hostage.
The operation that continued for over 15 days was a failure after which army was called in.
