President Asif Ali Zardari said that Katcha area (riverine area) dacoits, who are willing to surrender to the state, should be gradually mainstreamed and rehabilitated so they can become responsible and productive citizens of the country.
Presiding over a meeting in Sukkur regarding security and law and order situation in Sindh particularly Katcha areas, the president said that the criminals of Kacha Area in Sindh—except hardened criminals— must be mainstreamed and rehabilitated.
President Zardari however called for stern action against hardcore criminals involved in heinous crimes.
He emphasised the need to improve the road, health, and education infrastructure of the Kacha Areas on a priority basis to improve the socio-economic condition of the people.
The president advised that a Qaumi Jirga, comprising of tribal chiefs, should be convened to engage and negotiate with the local population to bring normalcy, prevent crimes, de-weaponise and improve the security situation in the area.
President Zardari underlined the need for modernising the police force by enhancing their capacity, providing modern equipment and weapons, and logistics to effectively meet the security challenges.
He was of the view that women should also be encouraged join the Sindh police.
The President directed to expedite the process of upgradation of Sakrand Police Commando School and provision of land for the establishment of Cadet College for Police. He added that selected students of the Cadet College would be educated and trained to join the Sindh Police.