Over 8,000 personnel deployed as Punjab Police finalise foolproof security plan for ODI series

• IG Police orders layered security for teams, officials, fans and citizens

• Dolphin Squad, PRU and Elite Force patrols to be intensified during series

• CCTV surveillance, snipers and route monitoring form key security layers

• Three-tier screening system enforced for stadium entry of spectators

 LAHORE: Punjab Police have finalised comprehensive and foolproof security arrangements for the Pakistan-Australia International One-Day Series matches being played at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.

Punjab Inspector General of Police Abdul Kareem directed the DIG Operations Lahore to ensure foolproof security for the teams, match officials, cricket fans and citizens, while the CTO Lahore has been tasked to keep traffic arrangements fully functional and seamless throughout the event. He said comprehensive security will be ensured for players, officials, spectators and the general public.

According to a Punjab Police spokesperson, more than 8,000 police officers and personnel, including SPs, SDPOs and SHOs, have been deployed for the security of the matches. In view of the prevailing security situation, arrangements around team routes, accommodation and Gaddafi Stadium have been further strengthened.

The IG Punjab directed that patrolling by the Dolphin Squad, Police Response Unit (PRU) and Elite Force be intensified during the series, while senior officers have been instructed to conduct a comprehensive review of all security and traffic arrangements well ahead of the matches. He also ordered continuous monitoring of team accommodation, travel routes and the stadium surroundings through CCTV surveillance.

Snipers will also be deployed at sensitive points, including along team routes, on high-rise buildings, inside Gaddafi Stadium and at other key locations as part of layered security measures.

 Abdul Kareem said all police officers and personnel must remain vigilant and closely monitor any miscreant elements. He added that spectators will be allowed entry into the stadium only after passing through a strict three-tier security cordon and screening process.

He further directed officers to treat citizens courteously and urged the public to fully cooperate with police during security checks to ensure the matches are held in a peaceful, secure and pleasant environment.