Pakistan’s Intelligence Bureau Issues High Alert Over Reported ‘Kidnapping Plot’ Targeting Foreign Guests
February 25, 2025: Pakistan’s Intelligence Bureau (IB) has reportedly raised a high-security alert after uncovering an alleged plot by covert groups to abduct foreign guests during the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025. According to a CNN-News18 report, multiple terror organizations, including Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and ISIS, along with Balochistan-based groups, have been flagged as potential threats.
With all teams except India playing their matches in Pakistan, heightened security measures have been implemented to ensure the safety of players and officials. If India reaches the final, the match will be held in Dubai, with their opposition traveling from Pakistan.
Also Read: Champions Trophy 2025: Pat Cummins Questions India’s ‘Unfair’ Venue Advantage
Major Security Deployment in Pakistan
Security concerns regarding international cricket in Pakistan have persisted since the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan team in Lahore. While India opted out of traveling to Pakistan, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has assured strict security for all visiting teams.
Reports indicate that a 12,000-strong security force, including police, rangers, and local law enforcement, has been deployed in Lahore and Rawalpindi. This force comprises 18 senior officers, 54 DSPs, 135 inspectors, 1,200 upper subordinates, 10,556 constables, and over 200 female officers.
Also Read: Wasim Akram Blasts Pakistan Cricket Team After India Loss: “Enough Is Enough!”
To streamline logistics, the PCB has partnered with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) to operate chartered flights for teams and officials, ensuring smooth movement between host cities.
Pakistan Team Faces Backlash
Amid these security concerns, the Pakistan cricket team is also facing immense pressure following their disappointing performance in the tournament. After suffering back-to-back defeats against New Zealand and India, criticism has mounted against the squad and its management. Reports suggest that interim head coach Aaqib Javed is likely to be removed from his role after the tournament.
Pakistan’s struggles in the Champions Trophy have fueled discussions about potential overhauls in team selection and coaching staff ahead of upcoming international fixtures.
Tags
Champions Trophy 2025, ICC Cricket, Pakistan Security Alert, Terror Threat in Cricket, India vs Pakistan, Pakistan Cricket Board, Cricket Safety, PCB Security, ICC Tournament Security, Aaqib Javed, Pakistan Cricket Team Crisis