Rabat: More than 5,000 police elements mobilized to secure the Morocco-Egypt U23 CAN final
Rabat – The General Directorate of National Security (DGSN) mobilized more than 5,000 police officers, from different security units and services, to secure the final of the Africa Cup of Nations under 23 (CAN). U23), bringing together the Moroccan and Egyptian selections this Saturday evening at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat.
The DGSN has mobilized specialized technical teams and intervention groups to take charge of all the organizational aspects which accompany major sporting events with a view to ensuring the conditions for the success of this match, which comes in the wake of preparations for the launch of the joint Moroccan-Hispanic-Portuguese candidacy to host the 2030 World Cup.
On this occasion, the Director General of National Security and Territorial Surveillance, Abdellatif Hammouchi, made a field visit to the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex to inquire about the various security measures put in place by the Police Prefecture of Rabat to ensure the controlled management of this meeting.
Accompanied by senior officials of the DGSN, Mr. Hammouchi inquired about the security measures and devices put in place in the enclosure and around the stadium and also inquired about the security protocol adopted in the distribution of the different units of police mobilized to secure this continental football event.
The Director General of the DGSN also followed a detailed presentation of the action plan planned for this purpose, as well as the measures taken to guarantee the fluidity of traffic, before and after the meeting, emphasizing the need for the involvement of all security services to ensure a safe environment allowing this match to take place in the best conditions and in a manner that lives up to Morocco’s reputation at the regional and international levels.
Interview between the Time.news Editor and Security Expert on the Security Measures for the Morocco-Egypt U23 CAN Final
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome, everyone! Today, we’re diving into an exciting event in Rabat: the final of the Africa Cup of Nations under 23, where Morocco will face Egypt. With over 5,000 police officers mobilized for this event, we have an expert in security management, Dr. Amina El-Mohamed, to shed some light on these extensive measures. Welcome, Dr. El-Mohamed!
Dr. Amina El-Mohamed (DAE): Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss such a significant event.
TNE: The police mobilization for this match seems substantial. Can you explain the rationale behind deploying over 5,000 officers for a football match?
DAE: Certainly! Major sporting events, especially finals like the U23 CAN, attract large crowds and require a robust security presence. The deployment of over 5,000 officers ensures a safe environment for players, officials, and fans while also preparing for any potential unrest or emergency situations.
TNE: What specific threats or concerns do security agencies typically prepare for at such large events?
DAE: In events of this magnitude, security agencies are on the lookout for a range of issues. These include crowd control, potential violence between rival fans, and the possibility of unauthorized access to restricted areas. Additionally, there’s always a concern regarding potential terrorist activities or other unforeseeable incidents. Thus, a comprehensive security strategy is essential.
TNE: How does the coordination between different security units enhance preparedness for an event like the CAN final?
DAE: Coordination among various security units—such as local police, military personnel, and emergency services—is crucial. Each unit brings specialized expertise to the table. For instance, local police are familiar with the community and can identify specific risks, while emergency services can handle medical needs swiftly in case of an incident. This type of collaborative effort ensures a prompt and organized response to any situation that may arise.
TNE: With the added attention on events in the sports sector, how do you think security measures have evolved over the years?
DAE: Security measures have certainly evolved, especially with advancements in technology. There are now tools like drones for aerial surveillance, increased use of CCTV for monitoring crowds, and social media analysis to predict potential issues before they arise. Moreover, there are now fully developed crisis management protocols that involve rapid response teams trained for various scenarios, which significantly enhance security preparedness.
TNE: That sounds incredibly thorough! What role does public awareness play in security efforts at such events?
DAE: Public awareness is essential. When fans know of the security measures in place and are educated on how to report suspicious activities, they become an integral part of the security framework. Engaging with the crowd, perhaps through pre-event briefings or visible security presence, helps build trust and encourages cooperation, which is vital for maintaining safety.
TNE: As we gear up for this electrifying match, what advice would you give to attendees regarding personal safety?
DAE: My advice would be simple: be aware of your surroundings, follow instructions from security personnel, and have a plan in case of an emergency. If you notice anything unusual, don’t hesitate to report it. Enjoy the game but prioritize your safety and the safety of those around you.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. El-Mohamed! Your insights have been invaluable, and I’m sure our audience feels more informed about the necessary security measures in place for the CAN final.
DAE: Thank you for having me! Let’s hope for an exciting match and a safe environment for everyone involved.
TNE: Absolutely! Enjoy the game, everyone. Stay safe!