Champions Trophy: ISKP Kidnap Threat

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

• Terror threat looms over the Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan!
• ISKP plans to kidnap foreign nationals, particularly Chinese and Arab citizens.
• Security agencies intensify surveillance at airports and seaports.
• ISKP might use camera-free safe houses for the abductions.
• Afghanistan’s intelligence agency also warns of attacks, stay vigilant.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

Pakistan’s Intelligence Bureau has issued a warning concerning a potential kidnap threat by the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. According to the bureau, ISKP is allegedly planning to kidnap foreigners, with a particular focus on Chinese and Arab nationals, seeking to extract ransom. The group is reportedly conducting surveillance at key locations, including airports, seaports, offices, and residential areas frequently visited by citizens from these countries.

Intelligence reports suggest that ISKP operatives are planning to rent safe houses on the outskirts of cities, deliberately choosing locations without camera surveillance. These locations are said to be accessible only by rickshaw or motorcycle. The terror group intends to move kidnapped individuals between these safe houses under the cover of night, in an attempt to evade security forces.

This warning comes at a time when Pakistan faces growing concerns regarding its ability to secure major international events. Historically, the country has faced criticism for downplaying attacks on foreign nationals. Incidents such as the 2024 attack on Chinese engineers in Shangla, and the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore, have raised questions about Pakistan’s security preparedness.

Meanwhile, Afghanistan’s General Directorate of Intelligence (GDI) has also alerted authorities about potential ISKP attacks on key locations. The GDI has stepped up efforts to track missing operatives linked to the group. This coordinated effort is crucial to preventing any possible attacks during the Champions Trophy.

In 2024, Al Azaim Media, affiliated with ISKP, released a 19-minute video asserting that cricket is a Western tool for intellectual warfare against Muslims. The group argued that the sport promotes nationalism and propaganda, conflicting with Islam’s jihadist ideology. They also criticized the Taliban for supporting the Afghanistan cricket team, highlighting the internal divisions and ideological conflicts within the region.

Pakistan is hosting the ninth edition of the Champions Trophy, but has faced early challenges in the tournament. The 2017 champions lost their opening two matches, including a six-wicket defeat to India on February 23, and another loss to New Zealand. The security concerns surrounding the tournament add an extra layer of pressure on the host nation. Ensuring the safety of all participants and attendees will be paramount.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

• Kidnap threat by ISKP looms over Champions Trophy 2025.
• Chinese and Arab nationals are particularly targeted.
• Security agencies increase surveillance and seek safe houses.
• Afghanistan intelligence also warns of potential attacks.
• Pakistan needs to strengthen its security to ensure safety.

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