KARACHI Web Desk : The Sindh government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, has taken bold steps to strengthen security, curb extremism, and enhance law enforcement efforts across the province. In the 32nd Apex Committee meeting, several key initiatives were announced, including the formation of a Special Unit to tackle social media misuse and the establishment of a Centre for Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism.
Crackdown on Illegal Foreign Nationals
The Sindh government has successfully completed the first phase of the Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan (IFRP) for 2023-24, deporting 85,916 undocumented individuals. With the second phase commencing in April 2025, authorities have already repatriated 479 individuals, with another 400 awaiting deportation in designated camps. To ensure smooth operations, the provincial government has allocated Rs 200 million for transit points in Keamari and Jacobabad.
Social Media Regulation & Protection
In a decisive move to safeguard online spaces, the federal government has established the Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority under the PECA Law. This authority will oversee the regulation of digital platforms, enforce content moderation, and combat unlawful and offensive materials. It will also have the power to partially or fully restrict access to non-compliant platforms.
Countering Violent Extremism
The Sindh government is set to introduce the Centre for Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism Act, 2025, to address radicalization and terror threats. This specialized center will focus on:
- Policy development and research on violent extremism
- Assisting Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in investigating terror financing
- Tackling online radicalization, hate speech, and disinformation
Joint Operations Against Dacoits
The Sindh Home Department is liaising with its counterparts to launch simultaneous operations across provincial borders, preventing criminals from escaping into neighboring regions. A joint assessment meeting will be scheduled soon in a border district to strategize an effective crackdown.
Revamped Counterterrorism Strategy
CM Murad Ali Shah reaffirmed the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism, with a revised National Action Plan (NAP) focusing on:
- Strengthening Counter-Terrorism Departments (CTDs)
- Cutting off terror financing
- Regulating religious seminaries
- Enhancing the criminal justice system
In 2025 alone, Sindh police conducted 318 intelligence-based operations, resulting in 153 FIRs, 84 arrests, and the elimination of 12 militants. Furthermore, two major cases of terror financing were registered, with one already under trial.
Combating Smuggling & Illegal Activities
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) reported seizing smuggled goods worth Rs 16,214.54 million in 2024-25, including 10,008 mobile phones and various contraband items. To strengthen anti-smuggling measures, a Hub Check Post is being set up with an allocation of Rs 214 million, incorporating state-of-the-art surveillance technology.
Security for Chinese Nationals
With ongoing China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects, stringent security measures have been implemented for Chinese workers. The Special Protection Unit (SPU), along with Army, Rangers, and Frontier Corps, ensures their safety, minimizing potential security threats.
Upgrading Police & Law Enforcement
The Sindh government has allocated Rs 280 million to renovate 31 Model Police Stations, with 10 already completed. To curb criminal activities, Section 144 banning weapon displays has been enforced since January 9, 2024.
Additionally, the Sindh Information Department has launched a media monitoring system to track violations, while the Legal Committee is finalizing amendments to the Code of Criminal Procedure (Cr.P.C.) for improved legal enforcement.
Looking Ahead
These strategic decisions reflect the Sindh government’s commitment to ensuring law and order, tackling organized crime, and fostering a safer environment for its citizens. With firm coordination between provincial and federal agencies, the upcoming months will witness intensified efforts to combat extremism, smuggling, and cybercrime, reinforcing Pakistan’s national security framework.
