New SOP for appointment, transfer of SHOs

In a move to enhance transparency and professionalism within the Sindh Police Department, IG Ghulam Nabi Memon has issued a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) governing the appointment and transfer of SHOs across the province.

The revised policy mandates that only officers who have successfully completed the Upper School Course will be eligible for SHO postings, while those facing corruption charges or serious criminal cases will be automatically disqualified.

As per the new SOP, the power to appoint SHOs has been delegated to the respective district's SSP. A committee comprising the Range DIG and the SSP will oversee the process to ensure fairness and accountability. Similarly, each appointed SHO will serve a minimum term of one year, barring exceptional circumstances such as misconduct, poor performance, or physical incapacity.

Moreover, officers will not be posted as SHOs in their home districts without prior approval from the IG Sindh. No officer can be reposted to the same police station within three years of their previous assignment there.

SHOs may only be transferred before completing their tenure in cases of corruption, inefficiency, or prolonged official inquiries exceeding 30 days. Officers removed under such conditions will be ineligible for SHO reappointment for at least one year.

Outgoing SHOs must formally transfer all official records and property to their successors, ensuring a smooth transition.

The police training branch and establishment wing have been instructed to conduct regular professional development courses to enhance officers' skills.

Immediate implementation

Immediately across all districts and zones of Sindh. The notification also clarifies that no officer can use this policy to demand preferential postings at specific police stations.

This reform is part of IG Sindh Ghulam Nabi Memon's broader efforts to institutionalise meritocracy and curb malpractices within the Police Department.

The move has been welcomed by law enforcement experts, who see it as a step toward restoring public trust in the force.