Sindh was established in 1843, 104 years before
Pakistan was born. The Sindh Police is one of South
Asia’s oldest organized law enforcement agencies
Sabahat Sarwar
Karachi: Long before Pakistan’s independence in 1947, a structured policing system had taken root in Sindh during British colonial rule. Established in 1843—104 years before the birth of Pakistan—the Sindh Police is one of South Asia’s oldest organized law enforcement agencies.
Today, this remarkable history is preserved at the Sindh Police Museum, located within the Garden Police Headquarters in Karachi. Housed in a heritage building constructed in 1865, the museum is more than just a display of artifacts—it is a tribute to nearly two centuries of bravery, discipline, and public service.
Birth of Organized Policing in Sindh
Policing in Sindh began shortly after the British annexation in 1843 under the administration of Sir Charles Napier. William Brown was appointed the first Chief of Police, followed by Edward Charles Marston, who led the force until 1872. At that time, Sindh was part of the Bombay Presidency, and the police command was based in Poona (now Pune).
A Shift Toward Local Leadership
Over the decades, the Sindh Police transitioned from colonial oversight to local command. A major milestone came in 1949 with the appointment of Muhammad Sharif Khan as the first Muslim head of Karachi Police, symbolizing a significant shift in the force’s identity and leadership.
Establishment and Growth of the Museum
The Sindh Police Museum was initiated in 2008 under the leadership of then-Inspector General of Police, Saud Ahmed, whose vision helped launch this historic project. Today, the museum is curated by DSP Shamim Ahmed, who continues to preserve its legacy with dedication.
Inside the Museum: Galleries and Archives
The museum features five galleries, an auditorium, and a comprehensive Reference Library. Exhibits include:
- Rare photographs and colonial-era police uniforms
- Antique weapons and medals
- Vintage driving licenses
- Rank insignias and historical police manuals
- The oldest registered First Information Report (FIR) dated 1861
- A copy of the FIR filed after the assassination of Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan
A Treasure Trove for Researchers and Historians
According to DSP Shamim Ahmed, the Reference Library is a vital resource for students, researchers, and law enforcement officials. It houses annual police reports, legal documents, training modules, and legislation dating back to the colonial period.
Public Engagement Encouraged
The Sindh Police Museum invites the public—especially students, educators, and history enthusiasts—to explore its vast archives and witness the evolution of law enforcement in the region. The museum aims to foster greater appreciation for the sacrifices and progress of one of the region’s oldest institutions.
