The Intelligence Bureau (IB) is the civilian agency Pakistan’s Prime Minister relies on for internal security — yet it is the least understood of the country’s intelligence organisations. This guide explains its role, powers and organisation.
Quick answer: The Intelligence Bureau is Pakistan’s civilian intelligence agency under the Prime Minister’s Office (a federal Division since 2024), responsible for internal security, counter-terrorism, counter-espionage and economic security.
In this guide
Role and mandate
The IB collects, analyses and disseminates intelligence on internal threats: militant and sectarian networks, subversive activity, espionage, and — increasingly — economic crimes such as hundi/hawala, smuggling, hoarding and human trafficking. It protects sensitive government institutions and supports police, the FIA and NACTA with intelligence. Its motto: “Security, Integrity, Sovereignty.”
Organisation
Headquartered in Islamabad with field formations across the provinces, the IB is led by a Director General who reports directly to the Prime Minister — the PM’s chief security adviser on the civilian side. Since the February 2024 elevation to Division status, the DG is also ex-officio Secretary of the IB Division, with financial autonomy and a voice in cabinet meetings.
History in brief
Lineage: the colonial Thuggee and Dacoity Department (1830) → IB established 1947 at independence → Division status 2024. The Bureau has served every government since 1947 as the prime minister’s internal-security arm — civilian through all of it, unlike the military-led ISI (1948) and MI.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Intelligence Bureau do?
Internal security intelligence: counter-terrorism, counter-espionage, economic-security operations and support to law enforcement — for the Prime Minister.
Is IB a civilian agency?
Yes — Pakistan’s premier civilian intelligence agency, under the PM Office.
