New safety measures have been implemented by New York officials in response to a global threat made by the terror group ISIS-K against the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup on Long Island, New York earlier this year.
Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick J. Ryder revealed on Wednesday that the event was targeted with a threat linked to ISIS-K in April. Subsequently, more specific threats were made regarding the India versus Pakistan game scheduled for June 9, along with references to a viral online video urging a "lone wolf" to take action.
The games are set to kick off this weekend at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in Eisenhower Park.
According to Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, this event is being likened to the Super Bowl on steroids. Teams from all corners of the globe will be participating, with fans from around the world also expected to flock to Nassau County. In preparation for this grand event, discussions on security and healthcare issues have been ongoing for over six months to address any possible concerns that may arise.
Blakeman highlighted the county's collaborative security initiatives with federal partners like the FBI, Department of Homeland Security, and other law enforcement, homeland security, and intelligence agencies.
"We treat every threat with utmost seriousness and follow the same procedures for each one," Blakeman emphasized. "As a result, we have implemented numerous precautions to ensure the safety of the stadium and the surrounding Eisenhower Park."
The county police commissioner shared the scale of the operation and his assurance in ensuring public safety.
"I want to emphasize that this will be the biggest security operation we have ever conducted in the history of our county. Rest assured, the safest place to be in Nassau County on June 9th will be inside that stadium," Ryder stated.
CNN’s Christina Zdanowicz contributed to this report.
Editor's P/S:
The heightened security measures implemented for the upcoming T20 Cricket World Cup in New York are a sobering reminder of the persistent threat of terrorism. The chilling references to a "lone wolf" attack and the targeting of the high-profile India-Pakistan game underscore the need for vigilance and robust security protocols. It is reassuring to know that authorities are taking these threats seriously and have a comprehensive plan in place to ensure public safety.
The collaboration between local, state, and federal agencies, including the FBI and Department of Homeland Security, demonstrates the importance of a coordinated response to potential threats. The scale of the security operation, described as the largest in the county's history, is a testament to the determination to protect both the stadium and the surrounding area. While it is vital to maintain a heightened level of awareness, it is also important to remember that these measures are not meant to create fear but rather to provide peace of mind and allow attendees to enjoy the event safely.