Lahore, Inspector General Police Punjab, Dr. Usman Anwar, conducted a thorough review of the security arrangements at Gaddafi Stadium for the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 matches. His visit, which drew positive reactions from citizens and cricket enthusiasts alike, underscored the Punjab Police’s commitment to ensuring a safe and peaceful environment for the prestigious cricket event.
According to Punjab Police, the presence of IG Punjab at Gaddafi Stadium not only heightened the spirits of cricket fans but also led to an outpouring of support for the Punjab Police. Enthusiastic fans took the opportunity to express their gratitude towards Dr. Usman Anwar and the police force by raising supportive slogans and taking selfies with the IG, appreciating the extensive security measures in place for the PSL matches.
During his visit, Dr. Usman Anwar was accompanied by DIG Operations Ali Nasir Rizvi, SP Model Town, and other senior police officers, who briefed him on the comprehensive security arrangements designed to protect players, officials, and spectators. The IG Punjab meticulously inspected the security deployments along the team routes, stadium entrance gates, and parking areas, emphasizing the importance of high alertness among the officers and personnel on duty.
Highlighting the scale of the security operation, Dr. Anwar disclosed that over 20,000 police officers and officials are deployed across Punjab to secure the PSL matches. He issued specific instructions to ensure vigilant monitoring, including the deployment of snipers on high buildings along the stadium route and the active patrolling of Dolphin Squad, Police Response Unit (PERU), and Elite Force teams.
The IG’s directives also covered the polite and courteous treatment of cricket fans by police officials during security checks, reinforcing the police’s commitment to facilitating a positive experience for all attendees.
On the second day of PSL season 09, two matches were played, one at Gaddafi Stadium Lahore between Quetta Gladiators and Peshawar Zalmi, and the other at Multan Stadium between Multan Sultans and Karachi Kings. Under the guidance of Dr. Usman Anwar, the CCPO Lahore and RPO Multan oversaw the security and traffic arrangements, ensuring a smooth and secure experience for all.
Dr. Anwar praised the enhanced security strategy for this year’s PSL, highlighting the coordinated efforts of the police, district administration, and security agencies. He emphasized the continuous monitoring through CCTV and the issuance of a traffic advisory to aid cricket fans and ensure uninterrupted traffic flow during the games.
The efforts by the Punjab Police to secure the PSL matches reflect a significant commitment to public safety and the promotion of international sports events in the region.