LAKKI MARWAT: The Deputy Commissioner Sports Gala-2022 began here on Tuesday after a colourful ceremony.

Deputy commissioner Fazal Akbar inaugurated the two-week festival at the Sports Stadium.

Hundreds of players from across the district will participate in cricket, football and badminton matches, and martial arts and tug-of-war contests.

Mr Akbar was given a warm welcome on arrival at the stadium amid drum beating and horse dance.

Assistant commissioner Tariq Mehmood, additional AC Ishaq Ali Khan, district sports officer Ismail Wazir, local elders, representatives of sports associations and scores of players attended the ceremony.

After a march past, the players exhibited martial arts and karate skills and received applause from the audience.

The DC said the administration would provide the residents with all possible opportunities to exhibit their sporting talents at provincial and national levels.

He also said noted sportsmen of the past from the area would be engaged to train youth.

Meanwhile, the police conducted a mock exercise at the police lines in Bannu city on Tuesday.

DPO Dr Mohammad Iqbal Khan and other officials watched the drills by the personnel of the police and Anti-Riot Squad and commands of the Rapid Response Force, Quick Response Force and Elite Force.

The law-enforcement officials demonstrated their anti-terror and rescue skills. A mock encounter between terrorists and policemen was also part of the event.

The DPO said more events would be held to prepare personnel for the efficient and effective handling of emergency situations.

Published in Dawn, November 16th, 2022