RAW Intelligence Unit deployed for India–Pakistan cricket match

2026-02-14 - 16:10

Sri Lanka Police say that more than 1,000 police officers have been deployed to ensure security for the India–Pakistan match scheduled to be played tomorrow (15) in the ICC Twenty20 World Cup. Meanwhile, it was reported that India’s RAW intelligence agency, Indian security personnel, as well as private security officers assigned to the players, have arrived in Colombo to provide security for Indian players and spectators in connection with the match. It is also reported that Pakistan’s security and intelligence agencies have likewise arrived in Colombo to assist with security arrangements for the match. Owing to the highly sensitive and high-risk nature of this controversial fixture, helmets, jackets, bags and alcoholic beverages will not be permitted inside the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo. Police Media Spokesman, Assistant Superintendent of Police F.U. Wootler, said that drones, electronic devices, musical instruments and similar items will also be strictly prohibited from being brought into the stadium under any circumstances. He further stated that all spectators will be subjected to thorough security checks upon entry, and that the law will be enforced strictly in the event of any unruly or disorderly behaviour during the match. The Police Media Spokesman also said that a special traffic plan will be implemented for the match, with 400 traffic police officers deployed for this purpose. He urged cricket fans to park their vehicles at designated parking areas and proceed to the stadium accordingly. Parking facilities have been arranged at the Grandpass Matty Park car park, Sebastian Canal car park, Kovil Road, Applewatte, both sides of 100 Feet Road, and car parks belonging to the Department of Railways. He added that a public transport service will also be in operation for local and foreign spectators attending the match. A very large crowd, including foreign nationals, is expected to attend the match. Accordingly, all gates of the R. Premadasa Stadium will be opened from 3.00 p.m. tomorrow (15), and spectators are requested to arrive at the stadium at least four hours before the start of the match, the Police Media Spokesman said.