KARACHI: Sindh Police have recovered 11 out of 19 passengers abducted after armed bandits attacked a passenger bus in Kashmore district. Senior Superintendent of Police Azhar Mughal, Sukkur, confirmed the recovery on Tuesday as operations continued across the region.
According to police officials, more than 20 armed bandits intercepted the bus on the Guddu–Kashmore Road near the Murid Shakh area. The attackers opened fire at the vehicle, shattered its windows, and created panic among passengers. Subsequently, they forced several people off the bus and fled with them into nearby areas.
Police Launch Immediate Operation
Soon after the attack, police launched a coordinated operation to rescue the abducted passengers. Deputy Superintendent of Police Obaro Abdul Qadir Soomro said authorities cordoned off the surrounding area. Moreover, police established multiple checkpoints to block escape routes and restrict the movement of the suspects.
Later, an exchange of fire took place between police teams and the bandits in the Somiani area. DSP Soomro said police used modern surveillance tools, including drones, to track the suspects’ movements. As a result, the pressure forced the bandits to abandon several hostages and retreat deeper into difficult terrain.
Recovered Passengers Receive Treatment
Police confirmed that all 11 recovered passengers were brought to safety. Some of them sustained injuries during the attack and abduction. Medical teams provided immediate treatment, and officials said their condition remained stable.
Meanwhile, families of the rescued passengers expressed relief as authorities continued efforts to secure the release of those still missing.
Expanded Action Across Sukkur Range
DIG Sukkur Faisal Abdullah Chachar said police expanded operations across the Sukkur Range to dismantle bandit networks. He confirmed that law enforcement agencies are also conducting actions in Ghotki district as part of the broader crackdown.
According to DIG Chachar, police engaged bandits in another encounter during which several suspects sustained injuries. He added that search operations were ongoing in the riverine katcha areas, where bandits often take refuge.
Operational Challenges Persist
DIG Chachar acknowledged that police faced operational difficulties due to dense fog and standing sugarcane crops. These conditions limited visibility and provided cover to the fleeing suspects. Nevertheless, he said police teams remained determined and continued coordinated ground and aerial surveillance.
Furthermore, authorities have mobilised additional resources to seal off riverine routes and prevent suspects from escaping to neighbouring districts.
Search Continues for Remaining Hostages
Police said efforts were underway to recover the remaining abducted passengers and arrest those responsible. Officials stressed that they would not allow criminal gangs to challenge the writ of the state.
Security forces reiterated their commitment to restoring peace in Kashmore and surrounding areas. They urged citizens to cooperate with law enforcement and report any suspicious activity as operations continue.
