Born: 1988 (Bhai Khan Talpur, Tando Muhammad Khan District, Sindh, Pakistan)
Suhai Aziz Talpur (Sindhi: سُهائي عزيز ٽالپر; born 1988) is a Pakistani law enforcement officer who has gained recognition for her remarkable leadership and service as Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) since 2013. Talpur holds the distinction of being the third Sindhi woman to serve in the police force of Pakistan, and her contributions have been instrumental in ensuring public safety and maintaining law and order in the country.
Talpur was born in 1988 in the village of Bhai Khan Talpur in the Tando Muhammad Khan District of Sindh, Pakistan. Her father, Aziz Talpur, is a political activist and writer. Despite facing societal pressures and stereotypes, Talpur’s parents were determined to ensure she received an education and pursued her dreams. She faced criticism from relatives when she was enrolled in school, leading her family to move from their village to a nearby town.
Talpur’s educational journey began at the Fauji Foundation Higher Secondary School, after which she joined the Bahria Foundation College in Hyderabad. She went on to obtain her Bachelor’s degree from the Zubaida Girls College and her Master’s degree in Economics from the University of Sindh, Jamshoro. Additionally, Talpur pursued certificate courses in Chartered Accountancy at the Al-Hamd Academy in Hyderabad and the Skans School of Accountancy.
In 2013, Talpur achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first female from the Lowland plateau of Sindh to reach the rank of ASP in the Pakistan Police Services. Her dedication to duty and commitment to upholding justice and order have been evident in various instances throughout her career.
One notable incident that showcased Talpur’s leadership abilities occurred on 13 August 2013. A terrorist attack with explosives, claimed by a banned nationalist outfit, took place at Hyder Chowk in Hyderabad, resulting in the loss of one life. In response to the attack, thirty-five locations within the city were declared sensitive, and seventy-five checking points were established by the police, along with the assistance of Pakistan Rangers paramilitaries. Talpur was appointed as the in-charge of Police Headquarters and related security arrangements until the end of Independence Day celebrations, highlighting her exceptional capabilities and the trust placed in her by her superiors.
In 2017, Talpur was entrusted with the responsibility of investigating allegations of sexual harassment against teaching staff at Sindh Varsity Common, further demonstrating her commitment to ensuring a safe and supportive environment for women. She handled the investigation with utmost professionalism and integrity, recognizing the importance of addressing such cases effectively and sensitively.
Furthermore, in 2018, Talpur made significant strides in combating organized crime in the Jamshoro area. She announced police raids targeting organized gangs involved in theft and drug trade in the region. Her strong stance against criminal activities highlighted her determination to maintain law and order, especially in a city of education, where criminal activities can have a significant impact on the local community.
However, it was Talpur’s exemplary leadership during the 2018 Karachi Chinese consulate attack that garnered widespread admiration and recognition. On 23 November 2018, three armed separatists attacked the consulate of China in Karachi, opposing Chinese investment in Pakistan. Talpur, as the senior superintendent of the Karachi Police, swiftly led police units to the scene, accompanied by the bomb disposal squad and firemen. She was the first senior officer to reach the location and took charge of the situation.
Talpur’s strategic planning and unwavering determination were instrumental in organizing and leading the two-hour battle that ensued. Despite the gravely dangerous circumstances, she remained resolute, ensuring the safety of her team and effectively neutralizing all three attackers. Her swift and decisive actions during the assault on the diplomatic mission have earned her praise and admiration for her bravery and quick thinking.
Suhai Aziz Talpur’s remarkable career in law enforcement stands as a testament to her strength, resilience, and commitment to serving and protecting her community. Her trailblazing role as the third Sindhi woman in the Pakistan Police Services has broken barriers and paved the way for more women to join the force. Talpur’s leadership during critical situations has undoubtedly left a lasting impact, earning her the respect and gratitude of the nation.