09 Apr 2024 | 04:13 PM UTC
France, Spain, UK: Increased security measures in place in Paris, Madrid, London ahead of high-profile football matches April 9-10 /update 1
Authorities increase security in France, UK, and Spain's capital cities ahead of high-profile football matches scheduled for April 9-10.
Heightened security is in place in London (UK), Madrid (Spain), and Paris (France) ahead of high-profile football matches on April 9 and 10 April. The actions are in response to a statement issued by a media outlet associated with the Islamic State (IS) militant group, in which threats were against the venues hosting the matches. Authorities have almost certainly deployed additional military and law enforcement officers to monitor railway stations, airports, malls and shopping centers, tourist attractions, and the stadiums affected.
The matches, the quarter-finals of the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) Champions League competition, will be held according to the following schedule:
April 9:
London: Emirates Stadium, 21:00
Madrid: Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, 21:00
April 10:
Paris: Parc des Princes Stadium, 21:00
Madrid: Estadio Metropolitano Stadium, 21:00
Although authorities have not confirmed if they have received evidence of any potential attacks, they are nonetheless acting out of an abundance of caution in deploying additional resources. Localized transport and road travel disruptions are probable. ID and document checks by law enforcement officers are likely in affected areas. Any disturbance near the affected locations will likely see an immediate response by security personnel.
Check for disruptions and allow extra time for travel in the affected areas through April 9-10. Heed instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a disturbance. Exercise increased caution in the vicinity of the affected stadiums.
