Security officials are on high alert as preparations intensify for the upcoming ICC Men’s Twenty20 World Cup, set to take place in the Caribbean and the United States.
Organisers of the event have assured the public that national security agencies are diligently taking all necessary measures to ensure the smooth and secure execution of the tournament.
Concerns arose following the circulation of a document on social media last week in Barbados, indicating that the CARICOM Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS) had received information regarding a potential security threat to the tournament from the Pro-Islamic State.
Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley of Trinidad and Tobago, who also serves as the head of national security for the two-island republic and chairman of the CARICOM prime ministerial subcommittee on cricket, affirmed that regional and international security forces are actively working to address any potential security risks that could disrupt the tournament.
Robust security plans have been meticulously developed
Acknowledging the dynamic nature of security threats, Prime Minister Rowley emphasized the challenge of completely sealing off all vulnerabilities. However, he assured the public of the commitment of security agencies to maintain vigilance and respond effectively to any emerging threats.
Cricket West Indies and the International Cricket Council (ICC), in a joint statement, emphasized that robust security plans have been meticulously developed for the tournament, scheduled to take place from June 1 to 29. The statement underscored the close collaboration between cricket authorities and host countries’ authorities, as well as ongoing monitoring and assessment of the global security landscape to identify and mitigate potential risks.
The safety and security of all participants and stakeholders involved in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup remain the top priority, as emphasized by Cricket West Indies and the ICC. Comprehensive security measures have been implemented across the tournament venues, spanning the Caribbean territories of Antigua, Barbados, Guyana, St Lucia, St Vincent, and Trinidad, as well as the American states of Florida, New York, and Texas.
The tournament will feature participation from 20 teams, including the co-hosts and two-time champions, West Indies, alongside the United States. With England defending their title as reigning champions, anticipation is high for an exciting and secure event that showcases the best of international cricket.
