The T20 World Cup in the Americas has received a terror threat, according to Trinidad’s Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley. He revealed this, even as the ICC confirmed that there’s a “comprehensive and robust security plan” in place for the event starting June 1. The tournament will feature 20 teams, including India, and will be held at nine venues, six of which are in the West Indies.
Currently, the threat is specific to the West Indies, where the Super 8 stage, along with the semifinals and final on June 29, will take place. Rowley, quoted by the ‘Trinidad Daily Express’, acknowledged the “ever-present danger” of terrorism in the 21st century. While Rowley didn’t name any specific organization, reports indicate that the threat came from the Islamic State through its propaganda channel.
The ICC responded by emphasizing its commitment to safety and security. The spokesperson stated, “Safety and security of everyone at the event is our number one priority, and we have a comprehensive and robust security plan in place.”
Ensuring Event Security: Collaborative Efforts and Ongoing Risk Assessment
They added, “We work closely with authorities in our host countries and continually monitor and evaluate the global landscape to ensure appropriate plans are in place to mitigate any risks identified to our event.”
Rowley highlighted the need for heightened national security measures to neutralize the threat. He emphasized the challenge of completely sealing off all opportunities for bad actors.
He still assured that local and regional intelligence and security agencies are working together to protect the population and venues throughout the tournament.
The World Cup matches will be held in various locations in the West Indies, including Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Guyana, Saint Lucia, St Vincent and Grenada, and Trinidad and Tobago. Additionally, games will be played in Florida, New York, and Texas in the US, with the India-Pakistan clash set for New York on June 9.
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