FOCUS GROUP DISCUSSION FOR TRAINING OF INVESTIGATION OFFICERS (POLICE) ON THE BASIS OF TNA (7, 8 APRIL, 2026)
The Supreme Court and the Peshawar High Court Direct Comprehensive Training for Investigating Officers: KP Judicial Academy Leads Capacity-Building Initiative In response to the directive of the National Judicial Policy Making Committee (NJPMC), under the leadership of the Chief Justice of Pakistan, for developing structured training programs for investigating officers across the country, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Judicial Academy (KPJA) undertook a comprehensive Training Needs Assessment (TNA), engaging Session Judges, Prosecutors and Senior Investigating Officers to ascertain critical gaps in investigative competencies.
On April 7–8, 2026, KPJA convened a two-day Focus Group Discussion (FGD) to formulate a robust training curriculum aimed at elevating investigative standards in line with contemporary legal and technological advancements. This initiative follows the judicial mandate set forth by the Peshawar High Court in the landmark case of Asif Ullah vs The State, emphasizing the necessity of modernizing investigative practices.
The FGD was chaired by Mr. Jehanzeb Shinwari, Director General of KPJA, with Ms. Hina Khan, Senior Director (Research & Publications), serving as moderator. The forum included 20 senior officials, comprising District and Sessions, Senior Police Officers, District and Sessions Judges, Public Prosecutors, Forensic Science experts and Health Professionals. Participants critically examined major deficiencies highlighted in the TNA, notably a 34-point gap in chain of custody procedures and a 30-point gap in crime scene management.
The discussion advocated for a “Practical-First” training approach, prioritizing field simulations and mock trials to ensure investigations are trial-ready from inception. The concluding session, chaired by Mr. Muhammad Zeb Khan, Registrar of the Peshawar High Court, affirmed that the outcomes will underpin a mandatory, graded certification program for investigative officers.
The KPJA will compile a detailed report with recommendations from the FGD to be submitted to the Hon’ble Chairman of the NJPMC for further action towards the professionalization and capacity-building of the investigative cadre in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
This initiative marks a significant step forward in strengthening the criminal justice system by enhancing the quality and reliability of investigations, thereby ensuring justice is served with integrity and efficiency.