A MAJOR security operation will be carried out at Champions League games this week, with armed police officers positioned on rooftops and bomb-sniffing dogs patrolling, according to security experts.
Europe is on high alert following a terrifying threat from the Islamic State death cult, promising to “kill them all” at quarter-final matches in London, Madrid, and Paris.
Tonight, Arsenal will face Bayern Munich as Manchester City takes on Real Madrid, while tomorrow will see Atletico Madrid playing against Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain hosting Barcelona.
ISIS has released a disturbing propaganda poster, claiming they are prepared to launch attacks at Emirates Stadium, Santiago Bernabeu, Metropolitano Stadium, and Parc de Princes.
Amid concerns of ISIS re-emerging, with an Afghanistan-based splinter cell known as ISIS-K claiming responsibility for the Moscow terror attack that left 144 people dead, police in Madrid and Paris have increased security measures for the matches.
The Metropolitan Police in London have assured that they have a robust policing plan for the match at Emirates Stadium and have not changed the substantial threat level.
According to security expert Chris Phillips, the security operation will not just focus on the stadiums but will extend to city centers and transportation hubs. He mentioned that armed police officers will monitor train stations, bus stations, and airports to prevent any potential threats.
Spain is deploying an additional 2,000 police officers for the Real Madrid versus Man City match, despite the terror alert level remaining at four out of five.
France’s interior minister has emphasized the heightened security around the match between Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona, as ISIS specifically targeted the stadiums in their communication.
Security will also be increased in city centers in France, with soldiers potentially being deployed as backup before the Paris Saint-Germain versus Barcelona match.
Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium will host tonight’s match between Arsenal and Bayern Munich. Despite the threatening messages from ISIS, Arsenal has stated that the match will proceed as usual.
Security specialist Will Geddes mentioned that the stadium, with a capacity of almost 70,000 seats, will have a multi-layered security operation in place to address any potential threats.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan of the Met Police stressed that the terrorism threat level remains at a substantial risk, urging the public to report any suspicious activity.
While the UK’s terrorism threat level hasn’t been raised like France or Spain, experts warn that the resurgence of ISIS could lead to potential attacks in the coming months.
UEFA has also issued a statement acknowledging the alleged terrorist threats towards this week’s Champions League matches and is working closely with authorities to ensure security.
The return of ISIS is feared as the group appears to be gaining strength. Attacks such as the Moscow terror attack and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East have raised concerns about potential new waves of terrorist threats.
Security experts stress the need for vigilance and preparedness to protect against various extremist groups that may target the Western world.
