Who Is the New IG Punjab Police? Rao Abdul Kareem
In a major federal administrative reshuffle, the Government of Pakistan has officially notified Rao Abdul Kareem as the new Inspector General (IG) of Punjab Police, effective Tuesday, February 3, 2026.
He replaces Dr. Usman Anwar, who had been serving as Punjab’s police chief since January 2023.
Who Is Rao Abdul Kareem?
Rao Abdul Kareem is a BS-21 officer of the Police Service of Pakistan (PSP) and belongs to the 24th Common.
- Hometown: Nawabshah
- Service Entry: 1996
- Cadre: PSP (BS-21)
- Reputation: Operationally strong, intelligence-oriented, discipline-focused
Before becoming IG Punjab, he was serving as Additional IG Special Branch Punjab, one of the most sensitive intelligence positions in the province.
Career Highlights (Nearly 30 Years of Service)
Rao Abdul Kareem has held key command, operational, and administrative roles across Punjab and Sindh.
🔹 Regional & Provincial Command
- Regional Police Officer (RPO), Gujranwala
- Commandant, Punjab Constabulary
- Additional IG, Punjab Highway Patrol
🔹 District & Field Operations
- District Police Officer (DPO):
- Mianwali
- Kasur
- Jhang
These postings involved handling serious crime, public-order situations, and politically sensitive districts.
🔹 Specialized Wings
- DIG Traffic Punjab
- DIG Telecommunication Punjab
Here, he oversaw urban traffic control, police communications, and technology-based policing systems.
🔹 Early Urban Policing
- Superintendent of Police (SP):
- Lahore
- Gujranwala
- Sheikhupura
What Happened to the Outgoing IG Punjab?
The federal government has transferred Dr. Usman Anwar and appointed him as Director General of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).
- New Post: DG FIA
- Outgoing DG FIA: Raja Riffat Mukhtar (directed to report to Establishment Division)
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi publicly praised Dr. Anwar’s “transformational leadership” in Punjab and expressed confidence in his ability to reform the FIA.
Current Leadership Snapshot
| Post | New Officer | Outgoing Officer |
|---|---|---|
| IG Punjab Police | Rao Abdul Kareem | Dr. Usman Anwar |
| DG FIA | Dr. Usman Anwar | Raja Riffat Mukhtar |
Frequently Asked Questions (High-Search Queries)
Who Is IG Punjab Police Right Now?
✅ Rao Abdul Kareem is the current Inspector General of Punjab Police (as of Feb 3, 2026).
What Is the Name of the New IG of Police in Punjab?
➡️ Rao Abdul Kareem
Who Is the DGP of Punjab Police?
In Pakistan, the title used is IG (Inspector General), not DGP.
So, the head of Punjab Police is IG Punjab Rao Abdul Kareem.
What Is the Salary of IGP in Pakistan?
The IG Punjab is a BS-21/BS-22 level position.
While exact figures are not officially disclosed, the estimated monthly package includes:
Basic pay (BS-21 scale)
Special allowances
Official residence
Staff, vehicles, security, and utilities
➡️ The total value runs into several hundred thousand rupees per month, making it one of the highest provincial public-sector posts.
Why This Appointment Matters
Punjab Police is Pakistan’s largest police force, and Rao Abdul Kareem’s appointment comes at a time of:
Heightened public scrutiny
Demand for accountability
Security planning for major cultural and political events in 2026
His background in intelligence, discipline, and operational command suggests a likely focus on:
Preventive policing
Stronger internal oversight
Better coordination between intelligence and field formations
Final Summary
- 🔁 Rao Abdul Kareem → IG Punjab Police
- 🔁 Dr. Usman Anwar → DG FIA
- 📅 Effective February 3, 2026
- 🏛️ One of the most significant policing reshuffles of the year
