London’s most senior British Asian police officer marks three decades of distinguished service
London’s most senior British Asian police officer has celebrated 30 years in policing.
Now City of London Police Commander Umer Khan OBE wants to see greater representation in the next generation of police officers coming through and reaching the top of their profession.
Reflecting on his three decades in policing, Commander Khan expressed his passion about working with communities and building cooperation.
“I am a police officer first and foremost and I understand how important it is that we represent the communities we serve,” he said. “We work tirelessly to understand the needs and concerns in all communities. Seeing individuals who look like them in a respected positions can inspire our diverse communities to consider a career in policing.”
Commander Khan, who arrived in Manchester from Pakistan at the age of 11, added: “I feel extremely privileged to have been a police officer for the last 30 years, it represents a deep personal commitment to public service, and I dedicate these achievements to my late parents, whose values and support made everything possible.”
Commissioner Pete O’Doherty said: “Umer and his family should be incredibly proud of what he has achieved.
“Umer is a values-driven leader and has worked extremely hard in improving how we deliver policing right in London, and his long-standing commitment and work ethic are an inspiration to us all.”
Commander Khan’s policing journey began in 1995, when he joined Greater Manchester Police as a constable. His early career saw him excel in detective roles within CID and fraud units, including an international secondment with HM Customs and Excise targeting organised crime.
Following the 2001 Oldham riots, then-Sergeant Khan played a pivotal role in rebuilding community relations. As an inspector in Rochdale, he developed an innovative consequence management approach during a challenging period of community tensions. His leadership proved particularly crucial during the 2017 Manchester Arena attack, when he coordinated vital community operations in the aftermath.
His exemplary service earned him an OBE in 2019 for contributions to policing and community cohesion.
In 2022, he made history as the first person of his background to assume the role of Commander for Security and Operations at the City of London Police. Under his leadership, the force has achieved outstanding results in the 2025 HMIC inspection and successfully delivered high-profile operations including the Global Investment Summit and Lord Mayor’s Show.
Away from policing, Commander Khan has fostered sporting talent as a community cricket coach, with several protégés advancing to represent England. He has also served on the boards of the Royal College of GPs, the FA, and various charitable organisations.