Lahore: The ICC Champions Trophy matches are proceeding in a secure and calm atmosphere, with Punjab Police maintaining heightened vigilance. Search and combing operations have been conducted extensively across the province following directives from Inspector General of Police Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar. In the past 24 hours alone, 399 such operations have taken place, resulting in the questioning of 13,491 individuals, the arrest of 53 suspects, and the detention of 42 wanted persons.

According to a statement by Punjab Police, these operations led to the recovery of 18 guns and five Kalashnikovs from those apprehended. Since the beginning of the year, a total of 16,577 operations have been executed across Punjab, involving the questioning of more than 384,000 people and the detention of 3,127 suspects. The operations have also resulted in the seizure of 51 pistols, 30 Kalashnikovs, 26 guns, and 15,551 bullets.

IG Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar has emphasized the importance of continuing these search, sweep, and intelligence-based combing operations with urgency. He has instructed that operations be conducted daily at sensitive locations, including educational institutions, bus stations, hotels, and inns. In light of the ongoing Champions Trophy, the police are maintaining vigilance against anti-national elements, with coordination efforts involving the Pakistan Cricket Board, district administration, and security agencies.

Dr. Anwar also highlighted that snipers are strategically placed at player residences, routes, stadiums, and nearby high-rise buildings. The Safe Cities cameras are being utilized to monitor key locations, including team routes and stadiums. He urged fans to cooperate with the Punjab Police to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for international cricket.