KARACHI: The Sindh government has decided to launch a “major” operation against drug dealers across the province from Wednesday (today). Senior Sindh Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon issued orders for the operation against drug dealers to be carried out by the excise and narcotics control department. In the first phase, the operation will target Karachi and Hyderabad. In subsequent phases it will be extended to other districts of Sindh. The minister chaired a meeting of the excise and narcotic control wing, which was attended by excise secretary Muhammad Saleem Rajput, narcotics control director general Aurangzeb Akbar Panhwar and other officers. The minister, who also holds the portfolios of information and transport, directed that a phased operation should be started in the province with the first phase focusing on elimination of drug peddlers in Karachi and Hyderabad. He stated that by expanding the scope of the anti-drug operation, it would soon be launched in other districts as well. “Our targets are crystal meth, ice, heroin, cocaine, and hashish, which must be eradicated at all costs,” Mr Memon said, adding that police and Rangers were prepared to cooperate with the excise and narcotics control teams during the operation. He said that with the introduction of the new anti-narcotics law, the responsibilities of the excise and narcotics control department had increased. “We all have a role to play in protecting our future generations from the scourge of drugs and in ensuring a drug-free society.” The minister also said that prizes and commendations would also be awarded to officials for their best performance in the operation.