The inquiry committee investigating the death of Superintendent of Police (SP) Adeel Akbar has found no evidence suggesting that the officer had committed suicide.
According to sources, the three-member inquiry committee, headed by Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Muhammad Haroon Joya, included DIG Atiq Tahir and DIG Operations Jawad Tariq as members.
The committee also recorded the statement of a psychologist, as part of efforts to assess the officer’s mental health. It was revealed that SP Adeel Akbar had consulted his doctor twice prior to his death.
An official inquiry has cleared Superintendent of Police (SP) Adeel Akbar of all allegations leveled against him by the Government of Balochistan, just days after his tragic death — a development that has sparked deep sorrow and reflection within the police community.
As per the Cabinet Division’s report, none of the charges against SP Akbar were substantiated. The investigation, conducted under the Civil Servants Efficiency and Discipline Rules, concluded that the officer had been wrongfully accused and was innocent of any misconduct.
The Cabinet Secretariat formally has released the clearance notification on April 10, 2025, officially exonerating SP Akbar and restoring his name posthumously.
Inquiry Delays and Psychological Toll
The report has unveiled that the prolonged inquiry had delayed promotion of SP Akbar, causing him immense stress. Officials confirmed that the case had been pending for several months, restricting his career growth.
“The halt in promotion deeply affected him,” the report stated, suggesting that the prolonged uncertainty and professional stagnation might have taken a toll on his mental well-being.
The Tragic Incident
On October 23, SP Adeel Akbar was found dead in his official vehicle near Serena Hotel in Islamabad. Initial reports indicated that the officer may have taken his own life shortly after receiving a troubling phone call.
As per police sources, he had been returning from the Foreign Office, where he had attested some documents. Moments after requesting his service weapon, a single gunshot was heard. He was immediately taken to PIMS Hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead on arrival.
Lessons and Institutional Reforms
The conclusion of the inquiry has renewed calls for institutional reforms, emphasizing the requirement to protect honest officers from undue pressure, delays, and baseless accusations.
Experts and civil servants stress that transparency, fair accountability processes and political neutrality are essential to restore trust in state institutions
Creating independent oversight mechanisms, making certain timely promotions, and providing mental health support for officers can prevent such tragedies.
A culture that rewards integrity and shields officers from political or bureaucratic interference is vital for strengthening civil service of Pakistan and preserving the dignity of those who serve it.