Eleven wanted dacoits operating in the katcha areas of Muzaffargarh city of Punjab have surrendered to police, officials said on Sunday, claiming that the district’s troubled belt has now been cleared of criminal gangs.

The surrender took place at the office of District Police Officer (DPO) Syed Ghazanfar Ali Shah, who addressed a press conference following the development.

The DPO said the surrendered suspects were wanted in cases involving police encounters, murder, robbery, and kidnapping for ransom.

He added that the bandits belonged to the notorious Bosan gang, 12 members of which had already been arrested by police earlier.

“With the surrender of these 11 dacoits, the katcha areas of Muzaffargarh district have been completely cleared of criminal elements,” the DPO claimed.

Heavy weapons recovered from the suspects were displayed to the media during the press conference.

Shah said the operation against criminal groups in the katcha areas was carried out after receiving intelligence reports using drones, night-vision devices, and effective blockades.

He added that the Intelligence Bureau and other agencies provided full support during the operation.

The DPO stated that a development roadmap has been prepared for the katcha areas, and its implementation has begun.

Under the plan, schools, colleges, hospitals, and roads will be constructed to improve living conditions and bring lasting change to the area.