MODERN policing demands continuous adaptation to evolving security challenges through better training, advanced technology and greater institutional capacity. From terrorism and organized crime to cybercrime and other emerging threats, the police must be equipped with the necessary skills, resources and investigative capabilities to effectively safeguard society. Equipping the police with modern training and the necessary resources is, therefore, the need of the hour. In this regard, it is indeed a matter of satisfaction that Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi is focusing on bringing meaningful improvements to the policing system through a series of reforms inspired by internationally successful law enforcement models.
During his meeting with Assistant Superintendents of Police who recently completed training in China and Türkiye, the Interior Minister announced a number of important initiatives. These include the launch of a pilot China-style Law Enforcement Investigation Centre in Islamabad, induction of modern drones into the Ministry of Interior’s Aviation Wing to strengthen surveillance and law enforcement operations, establishment of specialized investigation rooms at the National Police Academy and greater emphasis on investigation-focused training. He also announced that interrogation would become a specialized academic subject in police training, with modern techniques adopted from developed countries forming an integral part of the curriculum. These initiatives have the potential to significantly enhance the effectiveness of capital police. Better investigation skills can improve conviction rates and reduce reliance on outdated investigative practices. The use of advanced technology such as drones can strengthen surveillance, crime prevention, emergency response and intelligence gathering. Likewise, specialized training will enable police officers to respond more effectively to increasingly complex security challenges while promoting professionalism, efficiency and accountability within the force. The process of police reform, however, must continue on a sustained basis both by federal and provincial governments by addressing structural weaknesses that have long affected policing in Pakistan. Recruitment strictly on merit, transparent promotions, continuous professional development, accountability and insulation from political interference are essential if the police are to emerge as a truly professional institution. Public confidence in law enforcement can only be strengthened when citizens are convinced that the police serve the law impartially, competently and without discrimination.
