Enhanced Security Measures in Place for Champions League Quarterfinal Amid Terror Concerns

Paris police are planning to increase security measures significantly for the upcoming Champions League quarterfinal match between Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona this week. French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin announced this decision to journalists on Tuesday.

The decision to enhance security comes in response to a threat from the Islamic State terror group targeting the Parc des Princes stadium and other European soccer stadiums where Champions League matches are being held, according to Darmanin.

UEFA has stated to CNN that they are aware of the alleged terrorist threats and are closely working with the authorities at the venues.

Soccer Football - Copa del Rey - Final - Athletic Bilbao v RCD Mallorca - Estadio de La Cartuja, Seville, Spain - April 7, 2024 Athletic Bilbao celebrate winning the Copa del Rey REUTERS/Marcelo Del Pozo

Athletic Bilbao faced RCD Mallorca in the Copa del Rey Final at Estadio de La Cartuja in Seville, Spain on April 7, 2024. The match ended with Athletic Bilbao emerging as the champions and celebrating their victory. The joyous moment was captured by Marcelo del Pozo of Reuters.

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All matches will proceed as planned with necessary security measures in place, according to the spokesperson.

The Metropolitan Police in London has put a strong policing strategy in place for the Champions League quarterfinal match between Arsenal and Bayern Munich at the Emirates Stadium in response to the recent terror threats.

"The UK terrorism threat level remains at ‘substantial,’ indicating a high likelihood of an attack. We collaborate closely with Counter Terrorism Policing colleagues to plan for events in London, taking into consideration any relevant information to ensure the safety of attendees," stated Deputy Assistant Commissioner Ade Adelekan.

"We are aware of online and media reports regarding threats to matches in Europe and London. However, I want to assure the public that we have a strong policing plan in place for tonight's match. We are working closely with the club's security team to ensure a peaceful and safe event."

Arsenal works closely with the Metropolitan Police to ensure the safety and security of all supporters and staff at Emirates Stadium for all matches. The club's planning for tonight's fixture is no different. They work together with the Police and UEFA to ensure that their approach is proportionate to the current UK threat level.

Arsenal will face Bayern Munich at the Emirates Stadium in north London on Tuesday.

Arsenal will face Bayern Munich at the Emirates Stadium in north London on Tuesday.

This week, Arsenal will be facing Bayern while Real Madrid will be hosting defending champion Manchester City at the Santiago Bernabéu on Tuesday. On Wednesday, matches between PSG and Barça, as well as Atlético Madrid and Borussia Dortmund, will take place.

Last month, a tragic incident occurred at a well-known concert hall complex near Moscow. ISIS took responsibility for the attack, where armed individuals entered the venue and caused harm to many innocent people, resulting in the death of 60 individuals and injuring 145.

In response to the increased security concerns, there has been a noticeable increase in security measures in the Spanish capital.

In Madrid, security measures are being increased by Spanish security forces in preparation for the city's upcoming Champions League games at the Bernabéu and Civitas Metropolitano stadiums, as reported by police sources to CNN.

According to the police sources interviewed by CNN, this heightened security is not unusual, as anti-terrorism plans regularly involve closely monitoring potential threats. It has been observed that events with a significant crowd attendance are often targeted, hence the need for precautionary measures.

Since the attack in Moscow, terrorists have been trying to create a sense of alarm and fear, according to sources.

In light of the high-risk nature of the two upcoming matches, Francisco Martín, the delegate of the Spanish Government in Madrid, announced on Tuesday that an “extraordinary security deployment” will be carried out. This decision is based on the alert level determined by intelligence services and state security forces.

Nearly 1,900 security personnel will be deployed for Tuesday's game, which is expected to be attended by around 76,000 spectators. Among them, 4,100 have traveled from England.

For the match on Wednesday, approximately 1,275 security personnel will be on duty to ensure the safety of the estimated 68,000 spectators.

Editor's P/S:

The recent terrorist threats targeting Champions League matches across Europe have justifiably prompted authorities to enhance security measures. The tragic incident in Moscow serves as a stark reminder of the potential for violence and the need for vigilance. While it is crucial to prioritize the safety of attendees, it is equally important to ensure that these matches proceed as planned, allowing fans to enjoy the spectacle without fear.

The cooperation between law enforcement agencies, clubs, and UEFA is commendable, and their collaborative efforts should provide reassurance to attendees. The increased security presence, including the deployment of additional personnel, thorough screening, and heightened surveillance, aims to deter and mitigate potential threats. By working together, authorities can create a safe and secure environment while maintaining the integrity and excitement of these prestigious sporting events.