Lahore, In a significant move to blend sports with public service, Inspector General of Punjab Police, Dr. Usman Anwar, made a notable visit to the National Hockey Stadium, where he engaged with players from the Dutch Hockey and Higher Education Commission teams. This visit underscores the Punjab Police’s longstanding association with sports and its ambition to excel in the upcoming national sports competitions.

According to Punjab Police, the presence of IG Punjab at the stadium was met with enthusiasm from hockey fans, who chanted in support of the Punjab Police. In a gesture of solidarity and remembrance, the Dutch Hockey and Higher Education Commission teams dedicated their match to the martyrs of the police force. Dr. Anwar expressed his appreciation for the efforts of legendary hockey player Khawaja Junaid in organizing this tribute match.

Dr. Anwar emphasized the dual role of the Punjab Police in ensuring public safety and fostering positive activities among the youth. He highlighted the significance of sports events, such as the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and the visit of the Dutch hockey team, in promoting a peaceful and positive image of Pakistan internationally. The IG shared his vision for the Punjab Police to outperform the Punjab government in securing more medals in the forthcoming national sports competitions, showcasing the department’s deep-rooted connection with sports. Historical figures like Fazal Mehmood and Munir Dar, internationally renowned athletes, have been among the police ranks, illustrating this long-standing tradition.

Looking ahead, Dr. Anwar announced that sports teams from European countries, including China, will continue to visit, enhancing cultural and sports exchanges. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Khawaja Junaid Hockey Academy has been signed to support the promotion of hockey and nurture young talent. The police sports board’s athletes have already achieved considerable success, bringing home numerous medals and honors from both domestic and international competitions.

The event concluded with Dr. Anwar distributing prizes to the players, accompanied by senior officers including Additional IG Welfare and Finance Mohammad Riaz Nazir Gara, Commandant Chung DIG Mehboob Aslam Lilla, and DIG Logistics Athar Ismail, marking a memorable day that celebrated the intersection of sportsmanship and service.