Berlin: In anticipation of the European Championship commencing on June 14, Germany is enhancing its security measures to preempt potential threats emanating from Islamists, hooligans, violent individuals, and cyberattacks, Interior Minister Nancy Faeser confirmed on Tuesday.
Germany is bracing for an estimated 2.7 million spectators at stadiums nationwide, in addition to approximately 12 million fans expected to gather in fan zones for outdoor viewing. However, security concerns have heightened following a series of attacks in recent months.
While there are no specific threat indications, Faeser assures that Germany is making every effort to ensure the safety of the event. “You can never 100% guarantee security, but we are well prepared and remain very vigilant,” she stated during a press briefing. She further indicated that there would be a robust police presence, reinforced by international officers and 16,000 volunteers.
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The announcement comes in the wake of an incident where a 25-year-old attacker injured six people at a right-wing rally in Mannheim. The attack resulted in the death of a policeman.
Despite the tense atmosphere, Faeser sees the tournament as an opportunity for unity amidst the threats posed by Russian aggression and domestic extremism. “We want to show that sport stands for respect and cohesion,” says Faeser.
