Punjab Police has finalised comprehensive security arrangements for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy matches in Lahore and Rawalpindi, The News reported. According to a Punjab Police spokesperson, over 12,000 officers and personnel will be deployed to ensure security during the matches in both cities.  A total of 18 senior officers, 54 DSPs, 135 inspectors, and 1,200 upper subordinates will be on duty, while 10,556 constables and over 200 female police officers will also be assigned security and checking duties, he informed. 

It may be noted here that three matches will be played in the provincial capital on February 22, 26, and March 5 while three matches will be organised in Rawalpindi on February 24, 25 and 27.  He said more than 8,000 officers and personnel will perform security duties during the ICC Champions Trophy matches in Lahore.  A total of 12 senior officers, 39 DSPs, 86 inspectors, and 700 upper subordinates will be assigned duties, while 6,673 constables and 129 lady constables will also perform security and checking duties. 

Similarly, more than 5,000 officers and personnel will perform security duties during the matches in Rawalpindi.  Six senior officers, 15 DSPs, 50 inspectors, 500 upper subordinates, 4,000 constables, and over 100 female personnel will also perform security and checking duties.  IG Punjab Dr Usman Anwar said that full security will be provided to national, foreign players, officials and cricket fans. 

All international matches will be held in a peaceful and secure environment and in this regard, coordination with Pakistan Cricket Board, district administration, and security agencies has been completed.  IG Punjab said that search, sweep, combing and intelligence-based operations are ongoing around the players' residences, routes, and stadiums. Security will be on high alert during the matches, and traffic flow will be maintained.  The tournament will kick off on February 19 (Wednesday) with the opening match in Karachi between Pakistan and New Zealand, which will be played after a small ceremony at the National Bank Cricket Stadium. 

However, the most anticipated clash, as always, will be the high-stakes showdown between arch-rivals Pakistan and India, set to take place on February 23 in Dubai.  Lahore's newly renovated venue will host one of the semifinal whereas the other will be held in Dubai.  The tournament's final is also scheduled to take place at Gaddafi Stadium unless India reaches it, in which case it will be held in Dubai.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)