Over 100 Police Officers Dismissed in Pakistan after refusing to perform security duties at Champions Trophy

More than 100 police officers in Pakistan were dismissed after they refused to carry out their security duties during the ICC Champions Trophy. 

This incident occurred at a time when Pakistan, after 28 years, is hosting an ICC event, with strict security measures in place to ensure the safety of visitors.

Reports from Press Trust of India (PTI) revealed that the officers who were dismissed were part of the Punjab police force. 

This occurred just a day after the Pakistan Intelligence Bureau issued a high alert regarding possible security threats to foreign nationals visiting for the tournament.

It was discovered that these police officers had been absent from their duties multiple times or had outright refused to perform their responsibilities during the tournament. 

A senior officer from the Punjab police spoke to PTI, explaining the situation. “Police officers were assigned to ensure the safety of teams traveling between Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium and their designated hotels. However, they either did not show up or directly refused to take on their duties,” he said.

Punjab’s Inspector General of Police, Usman Anwar, took immediate action in response to this situation, instructing the police force to take strict measures against the officers involved. 

“There is no room for negligence when it comes to the security of international events,” the officer emphasized.

While there hasn’t been an official explanation as to why these officers refused to fulfill their responsibilities, local media reports suggest that the officers were exhausted from long hours of work without adequate rest breaks.

The Champions Trophy is the first ICC tournament held in Pakistan since 1996, but due to political tensions, India decided not to participate in the event. 

India’s matches are being held in Dubai instead. Despite this setback, Pakistan‍‍`s Federal Information Minister, Ataullah Tarar, dismissed any concerns about security threats during the tournament.

In an interview with Geo News, Minister Tarar stated, “I want to make it clear that Pakistan is hosting the ICC Champions Trophy peacefully and efficiently. Our stadiums are full, fans from all over the world have arrived, the public is excited, and our streets are filled with people celebrating the joy of cricket victories.”

Although Pakistan’s team has already been knocked out of the tournament after losing their first two matches, the country remains determined to ensure that the event concludes smoothly and peacefully with the remaining teams.