Police warn Premier League clubs jihadis ‘could target stadiums’ and fans should be on their guard as new season kicks off
'Protect and prepare' counter-terror strategy events are being held
to help football club officials deal with the potential threat.
FOOTBALL clubs have
been urged to up their security as counter-terrorism cops fear jihadis
could make stadiums their next target.
As the Premier League season kicked off last night, a senior police
officer warned that terrorists are prepared for these kind of deadly
attacks.The stark warning comes after four UK terror attacks this year, including a suicide bombing in the Manchester Arena, which left 22 dead and 59 injured.
Despite the concerns, there is no specific intelligence of an increased threat to grounds.
But football club officials from across the country have attended two police workshops, held at Wembley and Old Trafford, designed to address the threats to sports grounds.
Superintendent Dave Roney, the deputy national coordinator for the “Protect and Prepare” counter-terror strategy said the events allowed clubs to share best practice and gave police an insight into match days.
He said: “While there is no specific intelligence of an increased threat to football grounds in the UK, we have seen that terrorists are prepared to carry out attacks on this type of target.
“We have been pleased with the response from the football authorities in attending our events and making renewed efforts to do all they can to keep supporters safe.”
Supporters will be told to arrive early to games and minimise what they carry, as bag searches can slow entry to grounds.
Fans will also be urged to remain vigilant, and to evacuate immediately if told to do so rather than waiting around to film on mobile phones.
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