KACHA area, which skirts around the Indus river, lies between Rojhan and Kashmore. It is known as underworld where hordes of ruffians roam freely.

Kidnapping for ransom has become a common practice in this area. Robbers kidnap relatively wealthy men of the area and demand money, ranging from Rs600,000 to two million rupees.

Owing to dismal police performance these crimes have been increasing exponentially. A couple of years ago, Bangla Ichha police station was handed over to Rahim Yar Khan police, assuming that because of easy access to this area they would control the crimes.

The despondent public hoped for some relief from criminals but of no avail. Every year in winter a boat-bridge is constructed on the Indus river to connect Rojhan and Jamal Din Wali area. But this year it has been delayed for two months, probably owing to the pressure by robbers because it will help the police enter and operate in kacha area.

Some time ago, when the boat-bridge construction process started, a gang of criminals came and opened fire on boats and workers.

The public in nearby areas is afraid of kidnapping. They stopped going out for the irrigation of their fields in the evening and at night.

The authorities concerned should take this matter seriously and do the needful so that peace can be restored in this area.

Wadood Mazari

Rojhan

Published in Dawn, January 21st, 2019