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Wednesday March 26, 2025

Sindh govt to appoint 2,000 ASIs to investigation branch

By Salis bin Perwaiz
March 26, 2025
Policemen stand guard outside a polling station during the nationwide general elections in Karachi on February 8, 2024. — AFP
Policemen stand guard outside a polling station during the nationwide general elections in Karachi on February 8, 2024. — AFP

In a significant move to enhance the investigative capacity of the Sindh police, the provincial government has decided to appoint 2,000 assistant sub-inspectors (ASIs) to the investigation department.

Officials said this initiative aims to strengthen the police force’s ability to effectively handle criminal cases and improve conviction rates. The decision was taken in a meeting of the Service Structure Committee, chaired by Sindh Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah.

The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary Home Muhammad Iqbal Memon, Inspector General Police Ghulam Nabi Memon, Secretary Finance Fayaz Ahmed Jatoi, Secretary Services Ghulam Ali Brahmani, Secretary Law Ali Ahmed Baloach, and other relevant officers from the police department.

The home department, following consultation with the police and finance departments, had submitted a detailed proposal seeking approval for these posts. To manage the financial implications, 2,154 existing posts will be surrendered to accommodate the newly created ASI investigation positions. On this occasion, Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah stated that strengthening the investigation branch had been a longstanding challenge for the Sindh police.

He emphasized that investigation is a crucial component of policing and must be adequately equipped to ensure justice is served. He added that the creation of these posts is a significant step by the government to address this gap and improve investigative efficiency.

IGP Ghulam Nabi Memon, while briefing the meeting, explained that the police force had historically focused heavily on recruiting constables, who now make up approximately 92% of the total force. This imbalance had hindered the growth of the investigation branch. He stated that the induction of ASI Investigation officers will play a vital role in improving investigation standards, ensuring thorough evidence collection, and enhancing conviction rates.

He further noted that effective investigation is the backbone of the criminal justice system, and these newly created posts will empower the police to gather facts, analyze evidence, and build stronger cases to ensure offenders are brought to justice.

In addition to creating new posts, the home department has also sought approval for the re-appropriation of 1,038 posts, including 2 SPs, 17 DSPs, 114 inspectors, 308 sub- inspectors, and 587 constables from non-investigation to investigation units within Karachi Range. This reallocation is aimed at better utilizing resources without imposing any additional financial burden.

The Sindh government’s decision to strengthen the investigation branch reflects its commitment to improving law enforcement, eradicating crime, and ensuring justice across the province. By investing in investigative resources, the Sindh government is taking a major step towards improving the criminal justice system and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.