DADU: A major police operation under the command of Hyderabad DIG Pir Mohammad Shah is under way in the katcha area of Sehwan amid heightening tension between the Otho and Halipoto communities over the murder of Otho chieftain, Mohammad Urs Otho, a couple of days back.

The murder was linked with a dispute between the two sides over katcha land in the area.

A strong contingent of police moved into the area and dispossessed members of both communities to retrieve around 3,000 acres of the disputed farmland. Heavy deployment was made to prevent a flare up after firearms in a large number along with a sizable quantity of ammunition were seized. Ten suspects from both sides were detained.

The DIG has established a camp at Sehwan and visited the riverine area on a directive issued by Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah.

Published in Dawn, March 5th, 2022