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| ICC Media |
The Cricket West Indies (CWI) has moved to address concerns over potential security threats to the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup, slated to be held in the West Indies and the US from June 1 to 29. Reports emerged indicating terror alerts received by the Caribbean islands from North Pakistan, prompting heightened vigilance and coordination with security agencies.
CEO of CWI, Jonny Graves, emphasized their close collaboration with host countries and cities' authorities to ensure the safety and security of the tournament. "We work closely with authorities in the host countries and cities, and continually monitor and evaluate the global landscape to ensure appropriate plans are in place to mitigate any risks identified to our event," Graves stated.
The security alert cited incitements to violence against sporting events by pro-Islamic State (IS) media sources, particularly highlighting messages from the Afghanistan-Pakistan branch, IS-Khorasan (IS-K). Despite these alerts, CWI assured stakeholders of their comprehensive and robust security plan in place for the T20 World Cup.
Prime Minister Keith Rowley of Trinidad and Tobago confirmed that Caricom and security agencies are actively addressing potential threats to the World Cup. Reports indicate Barbados regional security officials are also monitoring the situation closely.
Intelligence regarding the potential threat was reportedly received through Pro-Islamic State (Daesh) media group "Nashir Pakistan," identified as an Islamic State group-affiliated propaganda channel. However, there's no indication of any threat to the games scheduled in the USA, where matches will be held in Florida, New York, and Texas.
In the West Indies, matches are set to take place across various islands including Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Guyana, Saint Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago. Despite the concerns, the semifinals and final are still scheduled to be held in Trinidad, Guyana, and Barbados, respectively.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) echoed CWI's assurances, emphasizing their shared commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all participants and spectators. With the tournament fast approaching, efforts to mitigate potential risks and maintain a safe environment for cricket lovers remain paramount.
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