LAHORE: In a major reshuffle at the top of the police hierarchy, Rao Abdul Kareem assumed charge as Punjab’s new inspector general of police on Tuesday, while Dr Usman Anwar, who served as provincial police chief for around three years, was appointed director general of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).

A notification appointing Rao Abdul Kareem as Punjab’s inspector general of police (IGP) was issued by the federal government the same day. He had been serving as the Additional IG of the Special Branch.

Punjab police also confirmed the appointment in a post on X, saying it hoped that “under his (IGP Kareem’s) inspiring leadership, the Punjab police will achieve milestones in protecting citizens’ lives and property, ensuring swift delivery of justice, and further strengthening the law and order situation”.

Senior officers attended the ceremony, except Lahore Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) Additional IG Bilal Siddique Kamyana, who is senior to the new IGP in inter-se seniority.

Rao Abdul Kareem replaces outgoing IGP Usman Anwar, who has been posted to FIA

An official claimed that the posting was the “first choice” of the PML-N and that the routine process, including interviews, was not followed. The official further claimed that a senior federal minister had supported Dr Anwar’s posting to the FIA, arguing his past experience in the agency would be relevant for handling high-profile assignments.

The official said the authorities believed Rao Abdul Kareem was the only officer who could facilitate it “in all references” and carry out tasks without hesitation.

Meanwhile, a Punjab police spokesperson said that upon Rao Abdul Kareem’s arrival at the Central Police Office, senior officers welcomed him. Briefing media representatives, Rao Abdul Kareem said that projects already initiated would be completed at the earliest, with further improvements. He said maintaining law and order, protecting life and property and public service would be his foremost priorities.

IGP Kareem previously served as Additional IG of Special Branch Punjab and has held positions including Additional IG Punjab Highway Patrol, Commandant of the Punjab Constabulary, DIG Traffic Punjab, Regional Police Officer Gujranwala and DIG Telecommunication.

Published in Dawn, February 4th, 2026