Sindh govt announces major operation against land mafia

KARACHI: An important meeting was held under the chairmanship of Sindh Minister for Local Government, Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, regarding action against the land mafia. The meeting was attended by Provincial Minister for Home Zia-ul-Hasan Lanjar, Mayor Karachi Murtaza Wahab, Member of Sindh Assembly Qasim Soomro, and other senior government officials. The meeting was also attended by the Additional IG Karachi, Deputy Commissioner West, SSP West, Director Generals KDA, MDA, and LDA. During the meeting, it was decided to launch a strict operation against the increasing encroachments and illegal land occupations in the city. Minister Nasir Hussain Shah directed that a comprehensive and effective operation would be conducted under the supervision of the Deputy Commissioner, in the presence of police and Rangers. He made it clear that, in light of the strict instructions of the Chairman and the Chief Minister Sindh, indiscriminate action would be taken against the land mafia and encroachments. Provincial Home Minister Zia-ul-Hasan Lanjar stated that the Law Department would provide full support during the operation, and all concerned SHOs would also be made part of the action. He instructed development authorities to ensure their land records and documentation are updated to avoid legal complications in courts. It was also decided in the meeting that if evidence of collusion between any government officer and the land mafia is found, strict departmental action will be taken. Nasir Hussain Shah warned that from now on, if any complaint of illegal occupation is received in areas under Revenue, anti-encroachment, police, or any development authority, an FIR will be registered against the concerned officers and they will be arrested. He emphasised that action will be taken under a zero-tolerance policy, regardless of anyone’s influence. The meeting also took notice of the alleged illegal sale of land by a local builder in Surjani Town Sectors 10 and 13. The Minister for Local Government warned the public to remain cautious of such fraudulent elements and illegal builders. Mayor Karachi Murtaza Wahab stated that informal settlements are established overnight in the city and no institution is willing to take responsibility. He announced that a comprehensive survey of katchi abadis and goths will also be conducted to control the situation. The meeting emphasised that no injustice should occur during the ongoing operation and that all actions must be carried out strictly in accordance with the law. It was also decided that files of cases currently pending in courts will be forwarded to the legal team. According to officials, practical action against the land mafia across the city will begin within the next few days. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

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