A RECENT incident in South Africa, described by the BBC as a nerve-wracking operation, has drawn global admiration. In a remarkable display of courage and professionalism, police recovered human remains from a crocodile-infested stretch of the Komati River. Capt Johan Potgieter was lowered from a helicopter into perilous waters during the search for a businessman swept away by floods.

With the assistance of drones and aerial surveillance, the authorities identified a suspicious 4.5-meter crocodile — disting-uished by its unnatural stillness and heavy stomach. The animal was euthanized, and a necropsy confirmed the grim discovery.

This extraordinary mission stands as a powerful testament to police expertise, dedication and an unflinching commitment to uncovering the truth — even under extreme and life-threatening conditions. This inspiring example of bravery and efficiency sharply contrasts with our own troubling reality.

In Sindh, several cases involving the poor and the vulnerable remain buried beneath inertia and influence. Cases continue to cry out for justice, including the haunting disappearance of Priya Kumari, abducted in 2021 during a procession in broad daylight; Fazila Sarki, missing since 2007; and the nine family members of Mano Bheel, abducted in 1998. These cases are enduring symbols of institutional failure.

The example from South Africa should not merely inspire admiration; it should provoke introspection. It demonstrates that with resolve, courage and institutional integrity, even the most complex mysteries can be pursued and resolved. Our law-enforcement machinery must rise above expediency and influence. The forgotten cases must be revived with sincerity, transparency and unwavering deter-mination so that mysteries surrounding these delayed cases are finally resolved.

Qamer Soomro
Shikarpur

Published in Dawn, May 14th, 2026