The highly-anticipated India versus Pakistan clash at the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 has received a lone wolf threat, and the New York City Police Department (NYPD) has therefore initiated the 'tightest security ever' in Nassau County.
Security personnel are preparing for the potential lone wolf attack on the event as the arch-rivals are slated to square off on June 9 at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium on the outskirts of New York, USA.
A lone wolf attacks refers to "a particular kind of mass murder, committed in a public setting by an individual who plans and commits the act on their own."
This security situation of the much-awaited encounter was revealed to the media on Wednesday (May 29) morning by Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder.
"Each and every day, Nassau County, as well as other communities and cities and counties and towns throughout the United States, receive all kinds of threats. We take every threat seriously," Blakeman was quoted as saying by CBS News.
"To that end, we have taken many, many precautions. As well as making sure that the stadium and the surrounding Eisenhower Park are safe, the parking areas are safe, the watch areas are safe, we also are adding 100 additional police officers to our normal staffing for the rest of the county, just as a precaution," he added.
One particular tip-off regarding the security threat was reportedly attributed to the police commissioner.
"When you've got a game and a crowd as big as this, everything is credible. We will go through every fine detail when it comes to the security and safety of the residents here in Nassau County. I can guarantee you this is the largest security we've ever had to do in this county's history, and I can also guarantee you the safest place to be in Nassau County on June 9 will be inside that stadium," Ryder said.
It is pertinent to mention here that this is the first instance of an India-Pakistan match being held in New York. Therefore, the buzz surrounding the game between the two arch-rivals is new to the local authorities as well. Furthermore, it has led to the Governor of New York State getting involved. She has stated that public safety will be her utmost priority.
The office of Kathy Hochul said in a statement released on Wednesday (May 29) morning, "In preparation for the Cricket World Cup, my Administration has been working for months with federal law enforcement and Nassau County to ensure New Yorkers and visitors are safe. This has included close coordination with the New York State Police Counter Terrorism Unit and New York State Police Troop L, based on Long Island. While there is no credible public safety threat at this time, we continue to monitor the situation closely. I have also directed the New York State Police to engage in elevated security measures, including an increased law enforcement presence, advanced surveillance, and thorough screening processes. Public safety is my top priority and we are committed to ensuring the Cricket World Cup is a safe, enjoyable experience."
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the International Cricket Council (ICC) said, "The safety and security of everyone at the event is our number one priority and we have a comprehensive and robust security plan in place. 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."
The CBS report also quoted Ryder on the measures being undertaken to ensure safety. Eisenhower Park will likely be closed from 6:30 AM and will reopen only late in the evening once fans leave for the day.
Also, the fans will have to go through metal detectors to enter the stadium and won't be allowed to carry bags/drones and non-VIP ticket-holders. The parking at the Eisenhower Park will also be limited to VIP ticket holders as others have to park near the Nassau Coliseum, which is about a half mile away.
