Eight CCTV Cameras Stolen From Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium

Eight CCTV Cameras Stolen From Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium
The security of Lahore Gaddafi Stadium is at stake as eight closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras worth millions of rupees have been stolen from the stadium's premises ahead of the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches.

According to media reports, the CCTV cameras were installed to enhance surveillance and ensure foolproof security during the PSL matches in Lahore.

In addition to the cameras, generator batteries, and CCTV fiber cables were stolen. The stolen items were purchased spending millions of rupees.

Two cases have been registered against the unidentified men at the Gulberg police station, and an investigation is underway to get a clue about the thieves.

Earlier, due to differences between the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the interim Punjab government over the cost of security arrangements, there have been rumors that the event may be shifted to Karachi.

The Punjab caretaker government had initially demanded Rs 450 million for security charges, but later reportedly dropped it to Rs 250 million.

n Sunday, Pakistan Cricket Board management committee chairman Najam Sethi announced that Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2023 matches in Lahore and Rawalpindi will continue as scheduled.

The PCB chairman expressed his gratitude to Punjab caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi for being “kind enough to agree to share cost of lighting routes during PSL matches in Lahore”.

The Punjab government and PCB had remained locked in negotiations over security arrangements for the matches in Lahore and Rawalpindi with the former demanding Rs450 million for security.

According to a press release issued by the PCB later, the agreement between the Punjab government and cricket board is on a “one-off basis”.

“It gives me immense satisfaction that the passionate and die-hard cricket fans of Lahore will now be able to see in action, modern day’s best T20 cricketers and enjoy them battle out for the prestigious Supernova Trophy. Following matches played in Karachi and Multan, the league has already set the tone for thrilling and exciting matches ahead, and I am confident that more entertaining and nail-biting games will be played over the coming day,” the press release quoted Najam Sethi as saying.

“I am also thankful to the franchise owners for their overwhelming and unconditional support to the PCB throughout this process. We remain committed to working with the local governments and sharing with them ideas and suggestions on how they can utilise the HBL PSL more strategically to generate revenues,” the press release quoted Najam Sethi as saying.

It is pertinent to mention here that Gaddafi Stadium hosted its first match of the season, where the hosts defeated Peshawar Zalmi by 40 runs in a tense contest.