Police Boldly Target Drug Mafias, Plans Next Phase of Targets Gutka, Mawa Networks in Sindh

By: Aziz Khatri

Karachi: Sindh Police praised recent successes against drug mafias and planned the next phase of operations at a review meeting chaired by IG Sindh Ghulam Nabi Memon. Officials said operations from May to July neutralised about 80% of A+‑category targets and led to the arrests of several major kingpins.

Directives from the meeting ordered dismantling remaining mafia networks and preventing their regrouping. Investigations into online drug sales will be intensified, with implicated courier companies and their agents to be included in probes and prosecutions. Technical and covert arrest methods were emphasised, along with building strong, evidence‑based cases and close coordination with prosecutors and the judiciary.

While anti‑drug operations have led to a reported fall in crime, officials warned that B‑category dealers might try to fill the vacuum and urged continued vigilance. IG Memon directed that gutka and mawa vendors be provincially classified and targeted like drug mafias to curb social harm.

Rehabilitation was also addressed: requests for addiction treatment centres in Karachi have been made, and destroyed drug dens have been sealed and guarded to prevent reoccupation. Authorities said a follow‑up review of case progress and sentencing will be held to ensure effective prosecutions.