CT 2025: Security Concerns for Players in Pakistan as Over 100 Policemen Refuse Duty
More than 100 policemen from Pakistan’s Punjab Police have been dismissed from service for refusing to perform their assigned security duties during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. A Punjab Police official confirmed on Tuesday that these officers and employees were removed after repeatedly being absent from duty. The dismissed personnel belonged to various branches of the police force.
Policemen Dismissed for Security Negligence
According to an official, over 100 police officers were removed from their posts after failing to report for duty multiple times during the Champions Trophy. Many others outright refused to take on their assigned responsibilities. The officer stated, “Police officers were appointed to provide security for teams traveling between Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore and designated hotels, but they either remained absent or refused to fulfill their duties.”
IGP Punjab Takes Strict Action
Inspector General of Punjab Police (IGP) Usman Anwar has taken strict notice of the matter and ordered disciplinary action against the concerned policemen. He emphasized, “There is no room for negligence when it comes to the security of an international tournament.”
While there has been no official explanation for their refusal, local media reports suggest that many officers felt overburdened due to excessively long duty hours.
Rising Concerns Over Player Security
This incident has sparked concerns over the security of players during the tournament. Both the ICC and PCB had assured teams of top-tier security arrangements, but the refusal of police personnel to perform their duties has created uncertainty.
India had already declined to tour Pakistan due to security concerns and opted to play all its matches in Dubai. Meanwhile, the Pakistan team has been eliminated from the tournament.
Security Breach During Match in Rawalpindi
Adding to security concerns, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken notice of a spectator breaching security during the New Zealand-Bangladesh match at Rawalpindi Stadium. The board emphasized that ensuring the safety of players and officials remains their top priority.
The PCB stated, “We have coordinated with local security agencies, who have assured us of increased personnel deployment around playing areas and stricter entry controls at all venues.” The individual responsible for the breach was immediately arrested, presented in court on Tuesday, and permanently banned from entering all cricket venues in Pakistan.
In response to these security lapses, the PCB is working closely with security agencies and venue authorities to strengthen security protocols and prevent future incidents.
