Champions Trophy 2025: Snipers on Rooftops as Pakistan Tightens Security After ISKP Terror Threat to Foreigners.
Photo : AP
Pakistan has reportedly enhanced its security measures for the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025 following an intelligence warning about a potential threat from the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP). According to media reports, the Pakistan Intelligence Bureau issued the warning that ISKP is planning to kidnap foreigners attending the tournament. The group is allegedly conducting surveillance at key locations, including ports, airports, offices, and residential areas frequented by these targeted nationalities.
Before the tournament began, there were concerns about Pakistan's ability to host major international events due to several past incidents, such as the 2024 attack on Chinese engineers in Shangla and the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore.
"Huge security arrangements have been made in Rawalpindi as teams continue their practice sessions for the ICC Champions Trophy," a report stated. "Expert snipers too have been placed on rooftops to deal with the adequate threats," the report added.
Incidentally, in 2024, an ISKP-affiliated media outlet released a video denouncing cricket as a Western tool against Muslims and criticising the Taliban's support of the Afghanistan cricket team.
Pakistan's police department has already stated that they will provide "iron-clad" security for players and fans. According to reports, surveillance systems have been upgraded with 10,000 AI-powered facial recognition cameras and additional CCTV cameras being installed.
Karachi police revealed that additional SWAT units have been set up for any emergency. Maqsood Ahmed, a Deputy Inspector General (DIG) in Karachi, said that over 5,000 police officers were deployed in the city alongside other law enforcement agencies, such as Rangers and the Pakistan Army.
Punjab Police's spokesperson stated that 12,000 police officers would be present to provide security for the marquee event in Lahore and Rawalpindi.
Lahore's security force comprises 8,000 personnel, including 12 senior officers, 39 DSPs, 86 inspectors, 6,673 constables, and 700 upper subordinates. 129 female constables will also be stationed to help female fans.
At Rawalpindi Stadium, more than 5,000 police personnel will be present, including six senior officers, 15 DSPs, 50 inspectors, 4,000 constables, 500 upper subordinates and 100 female security personnel.
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