Tuesday 15 July 2025
Plot to Kidnap Foreign Guests at Champions Trophy 2025?
Share
As per certain assuming reports, the Pakistani Intelligence Bureau (IB) issued a high alert regarding a suspected terror plot by Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP), ISIS and other Baluchistan-based groups during Champions Trophy 2025 in the country. The terror outfits may attempt to kidnap the foreign guests who are present in the country for the tournament. According to a report, the bureau has cautioned that these groups are plotting to target foreign guests.
All countries in the tournament are playing in Pakistan, except India which is playing all its matches in Dubai. Security is a big challenge forPakistanas the latter claimed a high-layered security arrangement for the players. In 2009, terrorists had targeted the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore after which security preparedness had become a key concern.
According to Pakistani media reports, as many as 12,000 security personnel are deployed during matches in Lahore and Rawalpindi. The PCB has also arranged charter flights for supporters and players. As per a foreign travel advisory, there is a high threat of terrorism and sectarian violence throughout Pakistan.
Terrorist groups mainly target Government of Pakistan security forces. Areas of Baluchistan andKhyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Peshawar, suffer regular terrorist attacks. Attacks have also taken place in Karachi and other major cities. While terrorist attacks are mainly directed against the Pakistani state, attacks could be indiscriminate and occur without warning, including in places visited by foreign nationals, such as:
Be cautious about attending public event, including:
Public transport and transport hubs, including airports, are at risk of attack. Avoid using the railway network due to the risk of terrorist attacks.
When travelling, always:
There is a threat of kidnap throughout Pakistan, particularly within the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Baluchistan provinces. Terrorist groups are unlikely to prioritize the kidnap of westerners in Pakistan. Any kidnap of a foreign national by terrorist groups in Pakistan would likely be opportunistic.
Foreign nationals are seen as legitimate targets, including tourists, humanitarian aid workers, journalists and business travelers. If they are kidnapped, the reason for their presence is unlikely to protect or secure safe release.
Political rallies, protests and demonstrations may take place across the country and can start with little warning. Most are peaceful, but they can turn violent quickly and lead to clashes with law enforcement. During elections, terrorists have targeted security forces, political events, rallies, government buildings and polling stations.
One should: avoid all political demonstrations, large crowds of people and public events
During times of protest or civil unrest, mobile data coverage and internet connectivity may be cut without warning. Additionally, major road networks in and around cities may be shut or blocked. One should have alternative travel options such as different routes for any journeys you plan.
Newsletter
Stay up to date with all the latest News that affects you in politics, finance and more.
