Long Island Boosts Security for World Cup Match Amid ISIS Threat

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
29/05/2024 21h00

Long Island is beefing up security measures as authorities aim to ensure the safety of fans attending the upcoming cricket World Cup match between India and Pakistan at Eisenhower Stadium on June 9. The decision comes after ISIS issued a threatening message aiming to disrupt the event.

Nassau County Police Commissioner, Patrick Ryder, emphasized that although no specific threat of a terror attack has been identified, they are taking no chances when it comes to the international championship match. "This will be the tightest security that Nassau County has ever seen," Ryder stated, adding that all available police resources, including intelligence, have been mobilized.

To enhance security, Nassau County is collaborating with various law enforcement agencies, including the New York Police Department, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, the New York State Police, the Suffolk County Police Department, and federal agencies such as the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security. Briefings have been arranged to ensure a coordinated security plan.

The increased security measures follow a disturbing online post by the Islamic State on matrix.com. The post, dated May 28, depicted an individual wearing a hood and carrying a rifle, with the message "You wait for the matches... and we wait for you." This menacing message has raised concerns about potential disruptions at Nassau Stadium during the cricket match.

County officials revealed that 100 additional police officers will be deployed to surrounding neighborhoods as a precautionary measure. Moreover, the stadium itself will be equipped with metal detectors at all entrances. A designated no-fly zone will be established overhead, and strict restrictions will be in place regarding attendees' belongings.

Nassau County Executive, Bruce Blakeman, likened the scale of security preparations to that of the Super Bowl, highlighting that safety and healthcare measures are a top priority. Blakeman's confidence in the thoroughness of the security arrangements stems from prior collaboration and coordination efforts between local and federal authorities.

Governor Kathy Hochul, in a statement, assured the public that Albany has been working closely with federal agencies for months to ensure the safety of the cricket matches. She also directed the New York State Police to heighten security measures by increasing law enforcement presence, implementing advanced surveillance techniques, and conducting thorough screening procedures.

According to the International Cricket Council, the 11-week World Cup competition will take place at several venues worldwide, including eight matches scheduled at Nassau County's 34,000-seat Eisenhower Stadium. Despite no current credible public safety threat, officials are maintaining constant vigilance and monitoring the situation closely.

As cricket enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the World Cup match, Long Island authorities are leaving no stone unturned in their commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for fans attending the highly-anticipated event.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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