Pakistan’s Intelligence Bureau sent a high-level alert on Monday, cautioning the nation’s security agencies about a possible plot by ‘active covert groups’ to kidnap foreign nationals attending the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 for ransom. As per CNN-News18, the alert mentioned threats from terror groups, including Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP), ISIS, and other extremist groups.
In retaliation, Pakistan has hired extensive security protocols, such as rangers and police, to guarantee the security of both players and their teams throughout the tournament. The alert follows Pakistan’s decision to host the much-coveted event, a major milestone for the nation’s cricket world. Nevertheless, this turn of events questions Pakistan’s capabilities in terms of security when it comes to hosting major international events.
Pakistan has been criticized in the past for underreporting or downplaying foreign national attacks, including the 2024 attack on Chinese engineers in Shangla and the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore. The attacks have further fueled concerns over the country’s preparedness to handle such incidents safely.
Earlier, due to security threats, India skipped traveling to Pakistan for the competition and instead is playing its Champions Trophy fixtures in Dubai. The move has precipitated a larger debate, with security concerns and geopolitical rivalries playing central roles in determining India’s decision.