In a surprising move, more than 100 police officers in Punjab have lost their jobs after refusing to carry out security duties during the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This historic decision, made on Tuesday, February 25, marks the first time so many officers have been sacked at once in Lahore’s history. It’s a bold step by the Punjab Police to ensure discipline and safety during this major international cricket event, but it’s also sparking conversations about the pressures faced by the force.
What Happened and Why
The Punjab Police had a big job on their hands: keeping players, fans, and venues safe during the Champions Trophy, which kicked off on February 19 in Karachi. With matches spread across Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Karachi, thousands of officers were assigned to protect the tournament. In Lahore alone, over 7,600 personnel were deployed, while Rawalpindi had more than 4,500 on duty. The plan was tight, with senior officers, inspectors, constables, and even special branch members working together to cover every angle.
But not everyone showed up. On Tuesday, Lahore’s Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) of Police Operations took action after finding out that 115 officers either didn’t report for duty, refused to take on their assignments, or dragged their feet when called. Names like Atiq, Zain, Ali, Sheeraz, Shan, Zubair, and Adi were among those listed in the dismissal orders. Some officers were simply absent without explanation, while others outright said no to the job. For the police leadership, this wasn’t just a small hiccup—it was a serious breach of duty during a high-stakes event.
The decision came fast. “These officers were given a responsibility to protect the public and ensure the smooth running of an international event,” a police spokesperson said. “Their refusal or absence put that at risk, and we can’t tolerate that.” The dismissals were meant to send a clear message: no one gets a free pass when security is on the line.
The Bigger Picture
The Champions Trophy is a big deal for Pakistan. It’s the first time the country has hosted an ICC tournament since the 1996 ODI World Cup, and the government and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have pulled out all the stops. Over 12,500 police officers and personnel were assigned across Lahore and Rawalpindi alone, with 411 members of the Special Branch pitching in for extra support. The tournament began with Pakistan facing New Zealand in Karachi, and matches in Lahore and Rawalpindi are set to run through early March. With foreign teams and fans in town, security was non-negotiable.
But this isn’t the first time police officers have faced heat for skipping work. Just last week, reports surfaced about 27 women officers in Islamabad being suspended for not showing up. And back in November 2024, clashes with protesters in Punjab left one officer dead and dozens injured, showing just how tough the job can be. For many, the Champions Trophy duties might have felt like another layer of pressure on an already stretched force.
Still, the timing couldn’t be worse. With the world watching Pakistan host this tournament, any slip-up could embarrass the country. “This is about more than just cricket,” said Ahmed Khan, a local sports fan. “It’s about showing we can handle big events safely. Those officers should’ve known what was at stake.”
How It Went Down
The dismissals weren’t a snap decision. Sources say the DIG Operations team kept a close eye on who was showing up and who wasn’t. When officers didn’t report to their posts—some guarding team routes, others stationed at stadiums—the higher-ups started asking questions. Those who couldn’t explain themselves or flat-out refused were out the door. The list of 115 names was finalized quickly, and by Tuesday morning, they were no longer part of the force.
For the officers who stayed, it was business as usual. In Lahore, over 8,000 personnel, including 12 senior officers, 39 deputy superintendents, and 6,673 constables, kept things running. Rawalpindi had its own team of over 5,000, including 100 female officers. The security setup was massive, with plans to escort teams, patrol venues, and manage crowds. Most officers stepped up, but the 115 who didn’t paid a steep price.
The Impact
Losing over 100 officers in one go is a shock to the system. For the Punjab Police, it’s a hit to their numbers at a time when they’re already spread thin. Some worry it could affect morale—after all, seeing colleagues fired overnight isn’t exactly a confidence booster. “It’s tough out there,” said Faisal, a constable still on duty in Lahore. “We’re working long hours, and now we’ve got this hanging over us. But we’ve got a job to do.”
On the flip side, the move might push others to stay in line. The police force relies on discipline, especially during events like this, and the dismissals could deter future no-shows. “It’s harsh, but it’s fair,” said Maria Hassan, a Lahore resident. “If they don’t want to do the work, they shouldn’t wear the uniform.”
For the sacked officers, the consequences are personal. Many are breadwinners, and losing their jobs could mean tough times ahead. There’s no word yet on whether they’ll appeal or if the police will reconsider, but for now, they’re out in the cold.
What’s Next
The Punjab Police aren’t slowing down. With the Champions Trophy still underway—Lahore hosting matches until March 5 and Rawalpindi wrapping up by February 27—they’ve got to keep the show on the road. The dismissed officers won’t be replaced overnight, so the current team will likely have to pick up the slack. “We’ve got enough people to manage,” the police spokesperson insisted. “The priority is keeping everyone safe, and we’ll make it work.”
There’s also talk of reviewing how duties are assigned. Some suggest the refusals might point to bigger issues—like burnout or poor communication—that need fixing. For now, though, the focus is on getting through the tournament without any more hiccups.
The PCB, meanwhile, is staying out of it. They’ve got their hands full with the games, especially after India refused to play in Pakistan, forcing some last-minute juggling. The police drama is one more headache they didn’t need, but they’re trusting the authorities to handle it.
Wrapping Up
The firing of over 100 Punjab Police officers is a wake-up call. It shows how seriously Pakistan is taking the Champions Trophy—and how little room there is for error. For the officers who lost their jobs, it’s a tough lesson in responsibility. For the rest, it’s a reminder to keep showing up, no matter how hard the days get.
As the tournament rolls on, all eyes will be on the cricket—and the men and women in uniform keeping it safe. Lahore’s never seen a shake-up like this before, and it’s a story that’ll linger long after the last ball is bowled. Whether it’s a one-off or a sign of stricter times ahead, one thing’s clear: in Pakistan right now, duty isn’t optional.