GUJRAT, Dec 21: Residents have expressed grave concern over the deteriorating law and order situation in Mandi Bahaudin district where three men have been killed by dacoits over the last eight days.

Near Dera Sahian in the precincts of Sadar Police Station, two unidentified dacoits intercepted Mazhar Iqbal and Sana Ullah and tried to snatch their motorcycle at gunpoint. They opened fire on the riders on facing resistance and escaped on the snatched motorcycle. Mazhar died on the spot while Sana sustained critical injuries.

Three men shot dead motorcyclist Amjad and snatched Rs5,000 from pillion-rider Asif near Nain Ranjha village.

Shan, riding a tractor, was shot dead by four robbers near Mekan village.

Near Pindi Bahaudin village, three bandits intercepted car-rider Malik Ejaz and snatched Rs400,000 from him at gunpoint.

Eight dacoits picketed the Sugar Mill Road and deprived more than 20 passers-by including mill-labourers of cash and a motorcycle. The dacoits beat up those who had no money.

Most of the incidents took place in the jurisdiction of Sadar Police Station. Residents of Mandi Bahaudin have urged the authorities to streamline policing in Mandi.