SUKKUR: Residents of Sukkur have expressed growing concern over the alleged expansion of illegal gambling, locally known as “Akra Parcha” (number betting), in several parts of the city. Citizens claim that the activity is being carried out openly in multiple neighborhoods under the jurisdiction of various police stations, raising fears about its impact on public safety, youth, and law and order.
According to local residents and community representatives, the alleged gambling operations have become increasingly visible, particularly in areas falling under the New Pind and A-Section police station limits. Citizens have questioned what they describe as inadequate enforcement against the illegal activity and have urged authorities to take immediate action.
Among the areas identified by residents are Bhasa Line, Kori Hotel, Amanullah Chowk, Pathan Colony, Agha Badruddin Colony, New Pind Main Chowk, Darzi Mohalla, Shikarpur Phatak, and Micro, all within the jurisdiction of New Pind Police Station.
Residents also alleged that illegal number betting is taking place in Tanga Stand, Shamsabad, and areas behind the Afghan Center under A-Section Police Station, as well as Pir Murad Shah Colony, Mirani Mohalla, and Shaikh Mohalla under the limits of C-Section Police Station.
Community members further alleged that a number of local individuals are involved in operating or facilitating the gambling network. The names mentioned by residents include Asghar Mirani (Kori Hotel), Majid Mahar, Khalid Mahar, and Saddam Khoso (Agha Badruddin Colony); Amir Pathan and Dawood Pathan (Pathan Colony); Hakim Shar (Bhasa Line); Yaro Gaddani, Shahid Jagirani, and Aashiq Channa (New Pind Main Chowk); Mehdi Khoso (Amanullah Chowk); Rashid Ghanghro (Darzi Mohalla); Taj Mangrio, described by residents as a wholesaler (Shikarpur Phatak); Farhan Khoso and Rafique Brohi (Micro); and Salahuddin (behind the Afghan Center in the A-Section area).
These allegations have not been independently verified, and no official charges or convictions against the named individuals were cited at the time of reporting.
Residents claim that the continued spread of illegal gambling has had serious social consequences. According to community members, many young people have reportedly lost substantial amounts of money through number betting, while concerns are also growing that minors are being exposed to gambling and other harmful activities at an early age.
Citizens fear that if the situation remains unchecked, it could contribute to an increase in crime, financial hardship, and other social problems within the city. They also alleged that the open sale of prohibited and harmful products, including Gutka, Pan Parag, and the operation of Rhythm game machines, alongside illegal betting activities, has added to public anxiety.
Local residents and members of political and social organizations say they have repeatedly voiced their concerns and are now demanding stronger enforcement from the authorities. They argue that a sustained crackdown is necessary to prevent further damage to the social fabric of the community and to discourage criminal activities associated with illegal gambling.
In a joint appeal, residents called upon the Chief Justice of Pakistan, the Federal Interior Minister, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Sindh, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Sukkur, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Sukkur, and Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Sukkur to take immediate notice of the situation.
They urged the relevant authorities to launch comprehensive operations against illegal gambling dens, investigate those found responsible under the law, and strengthen policing in the affected neighborhoods. Citizens also appealed for stricter monitoring to prevent the operation of illegal betting businesses and the sale of prohibited substances.
Residents said they hope timely intervention by the authorities will help restore public confidence, improve law and order, and protect young people from becoming involved in illegal gambling and other social vices.
At the time of filing this report, no official statement from Sukkur Police regarding these specific allegations was available. The allegations remain those of local residents and community representatives, and the named individuals have not publicly responded to the claims.
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