CWI addresses security concerns for T20 WC

Amidst reports of security threats to the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup in the West Indies, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has moved swiftly to allay fears and reassure stakeholders of the safety measures for the event.

CWI’s Response

In a statement to Cricbuzz, CWI CEO Jonny Graves emphasized their commitment to safety and security, stating, “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.”

Nature of Security Alert

The security alert, citing Pro-Islamic State (IS) media sources, raises concerns about potential violence targeting sporting events. The alert highlights messages from Khorasan (IS-K), urging supporters to incite violence in various countries.

The security alert states that, “Pro-Islamic State (IS) media sources have launched campaigns inciting violence against sporting events, which included video messages from the Afghanistan-Pakistan branch, ISKhorasan (IS-K) which highlighted assaults in numerous countries and urged supporters to join the battlefield in their countries.”

Actions Taken by Authorities

Caribbean media reports indicate that authorities, including Caricom and security agencies, are actively monitoring and addressing potential threats to the World Cup. Prime Minister Keith Rowley of Trinidad and Tobago affirmed the collaborative efforts to combat the threat.

“We want to assure all stakeholders that safety and security of everyone at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is our number one priority and we have a comprehensive and robust security plan in place,” Graves further told to Cricbuzz.

The Twenty20 World Cup matches are spread across several venues in the West Indies, including Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Guyana, Saint Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago. Additionally, matches will be held in US cities such as Florida, New York, and Texas.

It has been reported that intelligence of a potential threat to the World Cup has been received through Pro-Islamic State (Daesh) through the media group “Nashir Pakistan”. According to Daily Express, Nashir-e Pakistan is an Islamic State group-affiliated propaganda channel.