THIS is with reference to the report “Bandits in Kandhkot-Kashmore kill teacher who defied their ‘rule’ by going to school in no-go area” (March 19). In the past, the dacoits in Sindh inhabiting the rural hinterlands were known for their adherence to a code of conduct that was characterised by a peculiar sense of honour. They would always demonstrate a propensity to target individuals of considerable financial means, refraining from preying upon the impoverished and the downtrodden. They would respect women and would not cause undue harm or discomfort to the less fortunate. Regrettably, contemporary depictions of dacoits portray a stark departure from this erstwhile chivalrous archetype.

Present-day accounts depict dacoits as harbouring a ruthless demeanour, often collaborating with local landlords and politically influential figures to perpetrate heinous crimes, violence and brutality, thereby abandoning the ‘noble’ principles of yore.

A perfect example in this regard is that of Allah Rakhiyo Nandwani, the primary school teacher who was brutally murdered recently by notorious dacoits for going to school in Nasrullah Khan Bijarani village, which was declared a ‘no-go’ area by the bandits. Armed with a gun for his personal safety, the teacher used to go to the school at the risk of his own life.

Unfortunately, the recent surge in kidnappings for ransom has plunged interior areas of Sindh into a state of fear, insecurity and uncertainty. With over 60 individuals having fallen victim to these heartless dacoits this year alone, there is a palpable sense of insecurity among the people. The epicentre of this epidemic is the kacho area of Kashmore district, particularly on the Kandhkot side, where criminal gangs operate with impunity, exploiting the vulnerabilities of the local population.

In a recent tragic incident in Ghouspur, Kandhkot, a man was abducted along with his colleague. He was brutally tortured and dumped near the B.S. Feeder canal, while his colleague remains in captivity, amplifying the community’s distress and fuelling anger against the ineffectiveness of law-enforcement agencies.

The modus operandi of these dacoits is both cunning and cruel, exploiting potential victims through employing tactics like ‘honey trapping’ as well as fake job opportunities. They demand millions of rupees in ransom, imposing a heavy financial burden on the affected families, often with dire consequences for those unable to pay. The psychological toll on families is immeasurable, exacerbated by the desperation of receiving ransom demands and gruesome videos, plunging them into a perpetual state of trauma.

The Sindh chief minister had convened a cabinet meeting, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. Following a recent report from the Sindh police revealing 29 registered cases of kidnappings for ransom, the decision was made to launch operations against these dacoits. Despite sporadic grand operations by law-enforcers, the stronghold of these criminals remains intact, supported by access to sophisticated weaponry and deep-rooted corruption within the law-enforcement mechanism.

The situation has escalated to the point where almost half of northern Sindh remained paralysed by strikes and sit-ins that lasted more than a week. Continuous kidnappings for ransom have driven hundreds to migrate, particularly the members of the Hindu community. The cases have exacerbated ethnic tensions and social divisions within the region.

The government must take decisive action to combat the crisis. The authorities must address the root causes of these crimes by investigating and dismantling the networks responsible for supplying arms to these ruthless criminals.

A thorough and fair investigation into the involvement of potential political patrons in arms trafficking is crucial. Strengthening intelligence gathering, implementing strict penalties for arms trafficking, and providing support and protection to victims and their families are imperative steps. Additionally, enhancing community policing initiatives as well as investing in socioeconomic development to address underlying factors are also measures that are needed.

The government must prioritise the safety and security of the citizens by taking strict action against the criminals. Only through concerted efforts as well as effective and comprehensive strategies can Sindh rid itself of this scourge. It is time the current government demonstrated its commitment to justice and security through proper action and accountability.

Ali Gul Leghari
Johi

Published in Dawn, March 30th, 2024