The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has introduced sweeping internal accountability reforms following the appointment of its new Director General, Dr Usman Anwar, marking what officials are calling a historic shift in the institution’s disciplinary framework.
According to sources, the authority to suspend FIA officials has been devolved to lower levels of the command structure.
Under the new policy, officers empowered to initiate departmental proceedings against an official will now also have the authority to place that official under suspension at the initial stage. The move is aimed at eliminating procedural delays and ensuring swift accountability.
As per the revised rules, the initial suspension period has been capped at 120 days, during which the inquiry must be completed. Previously, suspension cases required approval from higher authorities, often resulting in prolonged delays that undermined both the accountability process and the institution’s public image.
In another significant development, a new clause has been introduced in criminal cases involving FIA personnel. Under this provision, any FIA official who is arrested or sent to jail will be considered automatically suspended from the date of arrest. Officials describe this measure as a clear demonstration of the agency’s zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct.
Dr Usman Anwar, a senior officer of the Police Service of Pakistan, has previously served as Inspector General of Punjab, where his tenure was marked by strict enforcement of discipline and accountability. Sources say his experience in the Punjab Police has influenced his decision to adopt a tough stance against corruption, abuse of authority, and internal irregularities within the FIA.
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