Sindh Police Cracks Down on Major Drug Networks Under High-Level Directive

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The Inspector General of Police Sindh, Ghulam Nabi Memon, presided over a crucial strategy meeting at the Central Police Office in Karachi aimed at accelerating efforts against entrenched narcotics networks operating in Sindh. The initiative zeroes in on high-level drug traffickers categorized as A-plus, those with significant influence, criminal records, and long-standing ties to organized crime.

Attended by senior law enforcement officials, including Additional Inspectors General of Police (IGPs) for Karachi, the Special Branch, and the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), the meeting brought together an extensive network of leadership from various departments. District police chiefs, participating through video link, provided updates on recent raids, arrests, and intelligence-led operations that have led to the dismantling of several drug dens across the province.

The IGP commended the performance of the Hyderabad Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP) and multiple Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) for their frontline efforts in executing successful operations. However, he emphasized the need for consistency and expansion of these operations, particularly in areas where drug activity remains a known public concern.

A key directive issued during the meeting included the establishment of permanent checkpoints and increased foot and vehicle patrols in high-risk zones. The objective, according to Memon, is to ensure not only the disruption of drug trafficking routes but also to restoration of public trust in law enforcement, something that has noticeably eroded under the current political climate and weak federal oversight.

Public criticism was acknowledged by the IGP as both warranted and necessary. He stated that such scrutiny reflects society’s expectations from law enforcement, a sentiment increasingly evident given the state’s sluggish response to rising crime. He also ordered the Special Branch not to include individuals in intelligence watchlists who have voluntarily distanced themselves from drug-related activities and are not currently under any legal investigation.

While the effort marks a step in the right direction, it also highlights the need for more autonomous provincial-level security responses. As federal leadership remains distracted and ineffective, provincial police forces must shoulder a growing share of responsibility in maintaining law and order.

This meeting, while focused on narcotics, speaks to a broader shift, one where local institutions are forced to act decisively in the absence of coherent national security priorities. It remains to be seen whether this momentum can be sustained, but the urgency conveyed during the session suggests a clear understanding of what’s at stake.