Before Frank Souter was appointed Police Commissioner in 1864, he saw action as a volunteer fighter in 1850 against the rebels in the "Nizam's dominions". In 1854 he was appointed Superintendent of Police in "Dharwar". Subsequently, he was credited for the capture of the Nargund rebel chief during the "Mutiny of 1857" and was awarded a "sword of honour" for this achievement. In 1859 he put to death a notorious outlaw named "Bhagoji Naik" and captured the latter's followers, thus ending the activities of the Bhil brigands in northern Deccan; this and other acts of courage earned for Mr. Souter a recommendation for the "Victoria Cross".