High Command Change: Rao Abdul Kareem Appointed New Punjab IGP

The federal government announced a high command change in the Punjab police on Tuesday. Rao Abdul Kareem now serves as the new inspector general of police. He replaced Dr Usman Anwar, who moved to a federal role.
A day earlier, senior officials confirmed the decision to Dawn. Therefore, the government approved the reshuffle at the top level. The move aims to improve coordination and leadership across departments.
In separate notifications, authorities appointed Dr Anwar as director general of the Federal Investigation Agency. He replaced Riffat Mukhtar, who must report to the Establishment Division. As a result, both institutions received new leadership.

Rao Abdul Kareem Takes Over Punjab Police

Punjab police confirmed the appointment in a post on X. The department welcomed Kareem and shared confidence in his vision. It expects progress in public safety and law enforcement.
Kareem belongs to Nawabshah and joined the police service in 1996. He comes from the 24th Common of the Police Service of Pakistan. In addition, he brings nearly three decades of experience.
He has served as commandant of the Punjab Constabulary. He also worked as DIG Traffic Punjab and DIG Telecommunication. For example, he held key roles as RPO Gujranwala.
Earlier, he served as SP in Lahore, Gujranwala, and Sheikhupura. He also worked as DPO in Mianwali, Kasur, and Jhang. Therefore, he understands diverse policing challenges.

Dr Usman Anwar Moves to FIA Leadership

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi congratulated Dr Anwar on X. He praised his reforms and professional approach. However, he called the FIA role a new beginning.
Naqvi said Dr Anwar reshaped Punjab police through strong leadership. He added that visible change would follow at the FIA. As a result, public expectations remain high.
Dr Anwar became Punjab IGP in January 2023. He earlier served with the National Highways and Motorway Police. This high command change marks another major shift in national policing.