Punjab Police have achieved a major breakthrough in their ongoing operation against riverine (katcha) criminals in Rahim Yar Khan, as a notorious bandit carrying a head money of Rs100 million surrendered along with his associates, police said on Wednesday.

According to a police spokesperson, the surrender came after law enforcement tightened its cordon during an intelligence-based operation in the riverine (katcha) area.

The main suspect, identified as Mira Lathani, laid down arms along with his accomplices Fida alias Rathore Lathani and Zulfi Lathani.

Police said the arrested suspects are hardened and record-holding criminals, allegedly involved in multiple serious offences, including murder, kidnapping and attacks on police personnel.

Inspector General of Punjab Police commended the Rahim Yar Khan District Police Officer (DPO) and his team for the successful operation, terming it a significant step in dismantling criminal networks operating in the katcha belt.

The DPO Rahim Yar Khan said the state remains committed to restoring peace in the riverine areas and added that those who renounce crime and surrender their weapons will be given an opportunity to return to a peaceful and lawful life.

He reiterated that intelligence-led, targeted operations against remaining criminals in the area will continue.