By Sabahat Sarwar
The history of the Sindh Police is a vibrant bouquet of brave, fearless, and intelligent officers. These individuals have not only strengthened the force in terms of capacity and numbers but have also devised effective strategies to deal with various challenges, including the maintenance of public safety and security. The province of Sindh has faced extremely challenging circumstances, including terrorism and various other crimes. Yet, the Sindh Police has consistently overcoming these hurdles with resilience and determination. The credit for the restoration of peace in Sindh goes to the brave officers and personnel of the Sindh Police who have tirelessly devoted themselves to their duties, often at great personal risk. The sacrifices made by these valiant officers, who laid down their lives in the line of duty, are an enduring part of the province’s journey toward peace. Behind every success and sacrifice in the history of the Sindh Police stands a force of dedicated officers and personnel who have worked relentlessly for the restoration of peace and have never hesitated to give their lives for the homeland.
The police has always stood as the first line of defense against every threat that challenges the safety and security of our nation. In every crisis, every emergency, and every moment of uncertainty, it is the police who step forward, placing themselves in harm’s way to protect the lives of countless others. To honor the extraordinary bravery and selfless devotion of police officers who laid down their lives for the motherland, Pakistan observes _Youm-e-Shuhada-e-Police on August 4_ each year. This solemn day serves as a tribute to the martyrs of the police, whose sacrifices remain etched in the heart of the nation. The observance of Youm-e-Shuhada-e-Police was initiated in 2010 following the martyrdom of Inspector General of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Safwat Ghayoor, who lost his life in a tragic suicide attack. His sacrifice became a symbol of the countless heroes who embraced martyrdom while standing guard over the nation. Since then, every August 4 stands as a day of remembrance for the police officers who have fallen in the line of duty—whether in suicide bombings, targeted attacks, deadly blasts, high-risk operations, or while confronting terrorism and crime.
A look into history reveals that the Sindh Police holds the distinction of being the first modern police force in the subcontinent. Throughout its existence, the Sindh Police has dutifully fulfilled its responsibility of maintaining law and order with utmost dedication and professionalism. With a legacy spanning over 180 years, the Sindh Police has consistently remained at the forefront of maintaining law and order, often at great personal risk. To date, more than 2,500 valiant officers of this force have laid down their lives in the line of duty, embodying the highest ideals of sacrifice and dedication.
One of the most striking examples of the Sindh Police’s courage was demonstrated on June 29, 2020, during the terrorist attack on the Pakistan Stock Exchange. On that day, four heavily armed attackers attempted to storm the building, aiming to inflict mass casualties. However, the swift and heroic response of the police thwarted their sinister plans. One such hero was Sub-Inspector Muhammad Shahid, who fearlessly confronted terrorists without regard for his own life. Alongside him, the brave personnel of the Rapid Response Force (RRF) and snipers kept a vigilant eye on every move of the attackers and prevented them from entering the Pakistan Stock Exchange building. Within just eight minutes, the nefarious plans of the terrorists were thwarted, preserving countless lives thanks to the bravery, skill, and quick action of the Sindh police, all four terrorists were eliminated within just eight minutes.Tragically, Sub-Inspector Muhammad Shahid, three security guards, and two civilians lost their lives, while seven others sustained injuries.
The Sindh Police has always stood at the forefront in safeguarding the lives and peace of its people—often at the cost of their own. The sacrifices made by the brave officers who laid down their lives in the line of duty are not forgotten. Their legacy continues to live on through the unwavering support extended to their families and the comprehensive Shuhada Compensation Package.
Shuhada Package, A Commitment to the Families of Martyrs
Understanding the magnitude of the sacrifices made by its personnel, the Sindh Police has established a generous compensation package for the families of martyred officers. This package not only serves as a token of respect but also aims to provide long-term security and support to the bereaved families.
The high status of martyrs is also affirmed in the Holy Quran. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:154), Allah says:
“And do not say about those who are killed in the way of Allah, ‘They are dead.’ Rather, they are alive, but you do not perceive.”
This verse remind us that the sacrifices of our martyrs are eternal and honored in both this life and the Hereafter. A Salute to the Guardians of Peace. As citizens, it is our moral and national duty to stand in gratitude and respect for the selfless services of our police. They are the true guardians who risk their lives daily to ensure our safety and peace.
“Sindh Police Zindabad, Pakistan Paindabad ”
