LAHORE: As the country gears up for three major sporting events namely tri-nation cricket series, International Cricket Council (ICC) Champions Trophy and the National Horse and Cattle Show, Punjab police has been taking steps to ensure fool-proof security ahead of the events.
IG Punjab Usman Anwar has ordered an increase in search and combing operations across the province, and the security forces have carried out 427 search and combing operations. As per the spokesperson of Punjab police 17,207 people were questioned, and 60 wanted criminals were arrested during the operations.
Earlier in January 12,128 search and combing operations were carried out across Punjab, including Lahore with 449,000 questioned.
The South African cricket team has officially arrived in Lahore, for the much-awaited series, which kicks off on Saturday. The tri-nation Series will see South African, New Zealand and Pakistani teams battling it out in a thrilling lead-up to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The first match will feature Pakistan facing off against New Zealand, setting the stage for the tournament.
The ICC Champions Trophy is set to commence from February 19, while the inauguration ceremony of Gaddafi Stadium will be held on February 7 (today), a day before Pakistan plays New Zealand. The ceremony will feature fireworks, a light show, and performances by Ali Zafar, Arif Lohar, and Aima Baig. Entry is free for the public from 5:30 PM on wards and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will also be attending the ceremony.
The PCB stated that upgrades to the Gaddafi Stadium have also been completed, and it was done in an incredible 117 days. Among the renovations include brighter LED lights, two new score screens, imported seated for all enclosures, newly built hospitality boxes and upgraded amenities for both players and spectators.