Sohail Chaudhry takes charge as Islamabad Police Chief

A formal change-of-command ceremony was held at the Central Police Office, where a smartly dressed police contingent presented a salute to the new

ISLAMABAD: Captain (Retd) Muhammad Sohail Chaudhry has formally assumed charge as Inspector General of Islamabad Police, taking responsibility for the capital’s policing at a time when demands for stronger, technology-driven and citizen-focused law enforcement are growing.

A formal change-of-command ceremony was held at the Central Police Office, where a smartly dressed police contingent presented a salute to the new police chief. Soon after assuming office, IG Sohail Chaudhry held detailed meetings with senior officers heading Operations, Security, Safe City, Counter-Terrorism Department and Investigation wings to review the overall security and policing situation in the capital.

He also visited the Martyrs’ Memorial and laid a floral wreath in tribute to police personnel who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.

The new IG has emphasised that maintaining peace, protecting citizens and ensuring effective police services will remain his foremost priorities. He has also made it clear that merit, transparency and the rule of law will remain central to his command, with no room for compromise on these principles.

His appointment comes amid continuing concerns about delays in the criminal justice system, particularly in cases involving violence against women and children. Delayed investigations, weak prosecution and shortcomings in evidence collection can undermine victims’ access to justice. Against this backdrop, the new police leadership is expected to place greater emphasis on timely registration of cases, professional investigation and stronger prosecution support.

Sohail Chaudhry’s previous postings in Lahore, Multan and Faisalabad have contributed to his image as a task-oriented police officer known for maintaining composure during challenging situations. Officers familiar with his working style describe him as someone who prefers verified information, measured decision-making and prompt action rather than unnecessary panic during crises.

During his earlier assignments, his approach reportedly focused on strengthening the initial stages of criminal cases through timely FIR registration, scientific investigation and preparation of comprehensive challans, with the objective of improving the chances of successful prosecution.

The new IG has also maintained a strong focus on police accountability and the welfare of rank-and-file personnel. His reported emphasis on protecting the legitimate rights of police employees while maintaining discipline reflects an approach that seeks to combine internal accountability with institutional support.

Islamabad Police, established in 1981, is responsible for security and law enforcement in the federal capital, which hosts diplomatic missions, federal institutions and a rapidly expanding population. The force operates through police stations as well as specialised units including Safe City, CTD, investigation and other operational formations.

Technology-based policing is expected to remain an important part of the new command. Systems and initiatives such as Safe City, Khidmat Markaz, the Online Women Police Station and Pukar-15 provide opportunities to improve emergency response, public access and monitoring of criminal activity.

For the new police chief, the immediate challenge will be to translate these systems into faster responses, stronger investigations and greater public confidence. His stated commitment to merit, transparency and the rule of law has therefore placed the focus firmly on whether Islamabad can build a more responsive, accountable and citizen-centred policing model under his leadership.