KARACHI: 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) in the investigation wing.

The initiative aims to strengthen the police force’s ability to effectively handle criminal cases and improve conviction rates, said a press release issued on Tuesday.

The decision was taken in a meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah and attended by Additional Chief Secretary-Home Muhammad Iqbal Memon, Inspector General of Police Ghulam Nabi Memon, Finance Secretary Fayaz Ahmed Jatoi, Services Secretary Ghulam Ali Brahmani, Law Secretary li Ahmed Baloach and others.

The home department, following consultation with the police and finance department, had submitted a detailed proposal seeking approval for these posts. To manage the financial implications, 2154 existing posts will be surrendered to accommodate the newly created ASI Investigation positions.

The chief secretary said that strengthening the investigation branch had been a longstanding challenge for the Sindh police. He emphasised 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 Sindh government to address this gap and improve investigative efficiency.

Briefing the meeting, the IGP explained that the police force had historically focused heavily on recruiting constables, who now make up approximately 92 per cent 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.

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 utilising resources without imposing any additional financial burden.

Published in Dawn, March 26th, 2025