Additional Inspector General of Police, Shyam Bhakta Thapa, has been designated Acting Chief of Nepal Police. The nearing retirement of Inspector General of Police, Pradip Shumsher JB Rana, would leave the post vacant. AIGP Govinda Bahadur Thapa, the first policeman to acquire a PhD, made a brief play for the top spot arguing he was as efficient and suitable for the job. Sources said Shyam Bhakta Thapa's appointment was made on the basis of seniority.