In a major shake-up to Pakistan’s security setup, more than 100 police officers have been dismissed for failing to perform their duties effectively during the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The drastic action underscores the high stakes involved in securing one of the most significant cricket tournaments hosted by Pakistan in nearly three decades.
The dismissed personnel, belonging to different wings of the police, were assigned to provide security for teams travelling between Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium and their designated hotels. However, according to reports from the Punjab Police, these officers were either absent from duty or outright refused to carry out their responsibilities, prompting strict disciplinary action.
A Punjab Police official confirmed to NDTV that Inspector General of Police (IGP) Usman Anwar personally took notice of the lapses and ordered immediate dismissals. “There is no room for negligence when it comes to the security of international events,” the official stated, emphasizing Pakistan’s commitment to ensuring a safe environment for players and spectators alike.
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Local reports suggest that some of the dismissed officers were struggling with excessive workloads and long hours, leading to their inability to meet security expectations. Despite these concerns, authorities remain firm in their decision, given the critical nature of international event security.
This year’s Champions Trophy is a landmark event for Pakistan, marking the country’s first ICC tournament since 1996. Having been deprived of international cricket for almost a decade following the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore, Pakistan has worked tirelessly to rebuild its reputation as a safe cricketing destination.
Over 100 Pakistani policemen dismissed for refusing duty during India-Pakistan Champions Trophy match.
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— shorts91 (@shorts_91) February 26, 2025
Meanwhile, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar, reassured fans and officials that the tournament is being hosted smoothly. Dismissing concerns about security threats, he asserted that Pakistan has successfully provided a safe and festive atmosphere for cricket fans from around the world.
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“I would like to state on record that Pakistan is peacefully and very ably hosting the ICC Champions Trophy. Our grounds are full, we have fans from all over the world, the crowds are jubilant, and our streets are filled with people celebrating cricket,” Attaullah Tarar told Geo News.
Despite past setbacks, Pakistan is determined to prove its capability in hosting global cricketing events, ensuring a safe and vibrant tournament for players and fans alike.
