Proof is in the pudding: Police using science for quality investigation, evidence

IGP says UNDP will help develop revolutionary Investigation Monitoring System

PESHAWAR: Investigation is considered the backbone of policing and K-P has taken several steps to get rid of obsolete techniques. The force has chosen to replace outdated methods with a scientific approach.

IGP Nasir Khan Durrani has ordered the development of a centralised and computerised monitoring system. The UNDP has been asked to help develop tailor-made software which will be called the Investigation Monitoring System (IMS).



A modern investigation system needs to be result-oriented and live up to the expectations of the public. It must result in the arrest and conviction of a suspect. To achieve this, quality investigation is necessary as the court is solely dependent on proof provided by law-enforcement agencies when reaching a decision.

The quality of investigation will be constantly monitored by senior police officials and this will only be possible through a computerised IMS. For instance, progress of a case in Bannu can be monitored by a policeman at the Central Police. The whole process is more revolution compared to mere evolution.

Talking to The Express Tribune, Pakistan Society of Criminology President and DIG-Investigation Dr Fasihuddin lauded the new system. He says it will pave the way for scientific and knowledge-based investigation management as envisioned by the IGP.

Meanwhile, Durrani himself has termed the new IMS operating system as a state-of-the-art concept.



“We have done a lot of work in the field of investigation,” he adds. “There was no crime scene photography before and now we have now introduced it. We trained constables who are working in a professional manner.” Durrani says the UNDP had approached the K-P police and offered its help.

“They wanted to help us. So, we asked them to develop software for us. We will provide the design and format and UNDP will sponsor the development on this basis. A committee has already been established to finalise the design and format,” he asserts.

“We have done a lot of things to improve investigation such as computerising FIRs,” he said.

“The modern concept of the investigation is from crime to criminals. We are introducing investigation based on this concept in K-P.”

Six key indicators for IMS 

 1) Complainants

The first indicator is related to a complaint’s First Information Report (FIR) registered at the police station. It is necessary to note the cell number of the complainant. FIRs are computerised and the availability of the mobile number enables police officials to update the complainant on progress in his or her case. After the IMS is put in place, senior police officials may soon be able to check details of the case much like online banking.

2) Keeping track of criminals

During the British Raj, records of suspects was kept in the Criminal Record Office (CRO) along with their sketch and photograph. This system was abandoned decades ago, making it difficult for police to track down criminals. However, now, a detailed profile and even family tree is available to police wherever required. Computerised profiling is done at the CTD and a red book of wanted terrorists has been prepared. A separate database has been kept at the CPO about criminals involved in murder, kidnapping for ransom and robbery. Police have been provided an android-based system to check if a suspect is wanted for any offence(s). Quick online verification is effective and takes little time.

3) Case Diaries

An investigation officer is required to record his findings and any progress in registered cases. This includes arrests, reports of laboratory examinations and recoveries in the case on a daily basis. Such recordings are called case diaries of Zimini. If an IO is transferred, it should also be written in the diary so responsibility may be pinned in case of a faulty investigation. The computerised IMS will make it easier for senior officers to keep a check.

4) Case Property

Case property means seized narcotics, stolen property, recovered arms and fake documents etc. Tampering or changing case property leads to acquittals of the accused from court. Evidence needs to be properly preserved and used in a court of law.

5) Communications

Communication between the IO, forensic labs and hospitals for various physical evidence examinations and medical reports is extremely necessary. Any delay or omission in the process could change the direction of the case and damage it. Through the IMS, such communication between the IOs and forensic labs can be monitored effectively.

6) Final Report

The chalan is the final legal document submitted in a court of law. IMS can determine whether the case file has been prepared and signed properly or not. The court findings and order are also entered into the IMS till the case is finalised.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 20^th, 2016.