How to Register an FIR in Pakistan?

Do you find yourself a victim or witness to a crime in Pakistan and wonder how to kickstart the legal process to seek justice? One crucial step in such circumstances is to register a First Information Report (FIR) with the local police. Knowing the whole process and acting quickly and swiftly is crucial to start a criminal investigation.

In this guide, I will walk you through the process of registering FIR in Pakistan in detail, outlining the necessary steps and considerations to ensure an effective and lawful submission of your complaint. Therefore, continue reading to enlighten yourself and gain a comprehensive understanding of registering an FIR in Pakistan.

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How to Register an FIR in Pakistan


In Pakistan, registering a First Information Report (FIR) is a legal process that involves reporting a crime to the police. Before moving toward the procedure, let me explain in detail what FIR is.

Understanding & Filing the FIR

The First Information Report (FIR) is a written record created by the police upon receiving information about the occurrence of any crime. It is a written record of information provided to the police promptly, earning its name ‘First Information Report’ because it captures detail chronologically.

It is usually a report made to the police, either by the victim of an offense or someone who is a witness of that offense. Moreover, reporting a cognizable offense can be done verbally or in writing at a police station. The police are obligated to register FIR promptly without any excuses.

Failure to do so is an offense and may lead to disciplinary action against the responsible police officer. In addition, registering an FIR holds significant importance, as the police begin their investigation only after its formal filing.

What Individuals Are Eligible To Register for an FIR?

Before moving towards the registration process, knowing who can file an FIR in Pakistan is crucial. Anyone with details about the occurrence of a cognizable offense has the right to file an FIR. It’s not a requirement that only the victim must submit the report.

Furthermore, a police officer who came across a cognizable offense can independently file an FIR. People have the right to file an FIR if:

  • They are the victim of the offense.
  • People have direct knowledge of a committed offense.
  • They have witnessed the offense taking place.

Nevertheless, it is mandatory for the police to record or document the reason for not pursuing an investigation, and in such cases, they are obligated to inform you (as per Section 157 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898).

Step-by-Step Guide on Registering an FIR in Pakistan

You can effortlessly file an FIR in Pakistan using two methods: online or personally visiting the local police station. Let me discuss the methods one by one:

File an FIR Manually in Pakistan

  • The first step is to visit or call a police station to report a cognizable offense.
  • When details about the occurrence of a cognizable are provided verbally, the police are required to note it down.
  • Once the police officer records the information and creates the report, request to have it read aloud to you.
  • Additionally, keep in mind that you have the right to check what is written in the FIR.
  • Next, after the police document the information in the FIR Register, the individual providing the information must sign it.
  • However, you must sign the report only after confirming that the details recorded by the police match the information you provided.
  • For illiterate individuals, they should place their thumb impression on the documents once they confirm that every detail is correct.
  • If the police do not provide a copy of the FIR, always request one. You have the right to receive a copy of the FIR without any fees or charges.

File an FIR Online in Pakistan

With the evolution of technology, individuals have the opportunity to register an FIR through online platforms, providing a more convenient way to report crimes. You can register an FIR in Pakistan by accessing the official website of provincial law enforcement agencies.

The implementation of this electronic system has simplified the process of filing complaints and monitoring their developments, including arrests and recoveries. Moreover, these databases are linked with NADRA and the Police Human Resource Management Information System, ensuring data integrity across all systems.

Punjab Police Online Complaint Portal: https://igp-8787-center.psca.gop.pk/online/complaint

KPK Police Online Complaint Portal: https://pas.kppolice.gov.pk/public/OnlineComplaint

Balochistan Police Online Complaint Portal: https://balochistanpolice.gov.pk/e-complaints

Sindh Police Online Complaint Portal: https://igpcms.sindhpolice.gov.pk/

No matter which province you are in, you can use the above-mentioned websites to register an FIR. In the online complaint portal, you must provide your CNIC number, address, full name, contact number, city, and the details of the complaint in the respective fields. After entering all the necessary details, click the ‘Submit’ button to file FIR successfully.

What Information Should be Included in The FIR?

When registering an FIR, you must be careful when providing information. The following are the details that every individual must include in the FIR:

  • FIR must include the name and address of the person filing it.
  • You must also report the incident’s date, time, and location.
  • The accurate details of the incident as it occurred, including any use of weapons, if applicable.
  • Names and addresses of any witnesses, if available.

Actions To Avoid

There are certain things that every individual must avoid when filing a complaint. The following are the actions to avoid:

  • Do NOT file a false complaint or provide incorrect information to the police. Providing false information or misleading the police can lead to legal consequences under Section 182 of the Pakistan Penal Code, 1860.
  • Avoid exaggerating or twisting facts.
  • Refrain from making vague or unclear statements.
  • A person who declines to sign their FIR statement may face prosecution under Section 180 of the Pakistan Penal Code, 1860.
  • If someone falsely accuses another person with the intention to harm, they can be charged under Section 211 of the Pakistan Penal Code,1860.

What Steps Can You Take If Your FIR is Not Registered?

  • You have the option to approach higher-ranking officers, such as the District Police Officer (DPO), Capital City Police Officer (CCPO), Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of police, or Provincial Police Officer (PPO) to bring your complaint to their attention.
  • An individual can send their written complaint by mail to the relevant DPO, CCPO, PPO, or DIG. If they find your complaint valid, they will instruct the registration of the FIR.
  • You can submit a petition under Section 22A(6) of the Criminal Procedure Code (Cr.P.C) to the Justice of Peace. This step comes after you receive a response from the police indicating their refusal to register a First Information Report (FIR). Keep in mind that Session Judges or Additional Session Judges hold the authority of the Justice of Peace in such matters.
  • Alternatively, you can file a private complaint with jurisdiction before the court.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, you can effortlessly register an FIR in Pakistan using two methods: online or by personally visiting the local police station. To successfully file an FIR, follow the instructions provided in this guide.