June 14th 2024.
The upcoming Euro 2024 event is causing quite a stir in the world of policing and security. According to counter-extremism expert Dr. Hans-Jakob Schindler, the competition presents a "very complex security challenge" that encompasses a wide range of threats. In addition to the usual concerns of terrorism, hooliganism, and far-right violence, there are also worrying signs of a resurgent ISIS and other extremist groups.
Dr. Schindler points out that not only are traditional methods of attack a concern, but newer tactics such as drone and lone actor attacks are also on the radar. With the first match taking place in Germany tonight, it is estimated that at least 500,000 fans from England and Scotland will be making the trip, whether they have tickets or not. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has issued a warning that terrorists are likely to target the event, with potential attacks being indiscriminate.
In the lead-up to the games, there have already been several terror-related arrests in Germany, including individuals linked to Hamas and ISIS. To combat these threats, hundreds of police and security officers from different countries are working together at the International Police Cooperation Centre in Neuss. This high-tech control room is responsible for collecting and analyzing security information, and disseminating it to the 24 participating nations.
Dr. Schindler explains that the threat environment for the Euros is particularly complex due to the recent Hamas attack and the resulting alliances between extremist groups. He also notes the presence of a violent right-wing extremist scene and a new strategy known as Active Clubs, who are being trained in street-fighting. With the competition providing a large and high-profile platform, these groups see it as an opportunity to make a statement.
The ever-present threat of terror is further emphasized by online posters released by pro-ISIS media groups, which directly target the Euro 2024 and Paris Olympics venues. These posters, analyzed by the Middle East Media Research Institute, include images of drones carrying explosives towards iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower.
While the police in the host cities are responsible for the safety and security on the ground, the International Police Cooperation Centre serves as a nerve center for coordinating efforts between different countries. This includes the use of plain-clothed officers, known as "spotters," who provide valuable information to their colleagues in the control room. Special attention will also be paid to the Serbian "ultras" attending their team's matches, as they have a history of violence and have shown support for Russian leader Vladimir Putin.
With an estimated 2.7 million visitors expected over the 10 weeks of the competition, the security operation is no small feat. England's first match against Serbia has been deemed "high risk" by UEFA and the German authorities, with concerns over potential clashes between rival fans. The city of Gelsenkirchen, where the match will take place, is also preparing for a fan park with a capacity of 40,000 people to watch the games and enjoy other activities.
Despite the challenges, Dr. Schindler assures that the German authorities are well-prepared and have been working closely with the police and intelligence services of all the countries participating in Euro 2024. With a united effort and advanced technology, they are determined to ensure the safety and security of all those attending the event.
The upcoming Euro 2024 has been described as a complex challenge for police and security services. According to Dr. Hans-Jakob Schindler, an expert in counter-extremism, the event poses a variety of threats, including terrorism, hooliganism, and far-right violence. He also highlighted the resurgence of groups like ISIS and their potential for attacks, as well as the threat of drone and lone actor attacks.
As the UEFA competition kicks off in Germany tonight, it is expected to attract at least 500,000 fans from England and Scotland, with or without tickets. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office has issued a warning that terrorists are likely to target the event, and their attacks could be indiscriminate.
In the lead-up to the games, there have been several terror arrests in Germany, including individuals affiliated with Hamas and ISIS. To ensure safety and security, hundreds of police and security officers, including representatives from the UK, are working together in a 24-7 control room at the International Police Cooperation Centre in the city of Nuess.
Dr. Schindler, who is a senior director at the Counter Extremism Project, explained the complexity of the threat environment for Euro 2024. He mentioned the usual threats of Islamist terrorism and right-wing violence, but also noted that these threats have been amplified this time around. He also highlighted the pressure on groups like al-Qaeda and ISIS to make a significant impact and regain media attention.
The International Police Cooperation Centre in Neuss is at the forefront of ensuring safety and security during the event. With its high-tech capabilities, it serves as a nerve center where information is collected, analyzed, and shared among the 24 participating nations. On the ground, plain-clothed officers from various countries, including the UK, will act as spotters and report any potential threats to the center.
One of the biggest concerns for authorities is the potential for violence from right-wing extremist groups. Dr. Schindler mentioned a new strategy in America named Active Clubs, where members are being trained in street-fighting. He also pointed out the threat posed by unofficial pro-ISIS media groups, who have released posters threatening to attack Euro 2024 and the Paris Olympics.
While the host cities are responsible for safety and security on the ground, the IPCC operation aims to integrate international personnel and ensure seamless cooperation. With 2.7 million visitors expected over the 10 weeks of the competition, the operation is crucial to maintaining safety and security.
As the event draws closer, the authorities are keeping a close eye on potential threats, such as the attendance of Red Star Belgrade "ultras" at Serbia's opening fixtures. These fans have a history of violence and have shown support for Russian President Vladimir Putin. With such high-risk matches, the German authorities are working closely with police and intelligence services from all participating countries.
Despite the challenges, the focus remains on ensuring a safe and enjoyable event for all. With 10 different venues, including fan parks, the competition promises to be an exciting experience for football fans. It all begins tonight with Scotland playing the host nation in Munich, followed by England's match against Serbia on Sunday. As the city of Gelsenkirchen prepares to welcome thousands of fans, the authorities are leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to ensure security.
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