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Premier League clubs 'receive memo from counter terrorist police' after scary ISIS threat
Premier League clubs have been urged to stay alert following recent terrorist threats.
Premier League clubs have been urged to review their security procedures following threats made by ISIS ahead of this week's Champions League fixtures. Media accounts linked to the terrorist group published threats to carry out attacks at football matches across Europe, listing the Emirates Stadium, Parc des Princes and Bernabeu as possible targets.
The clubs involved in this week's Champions League games stepped up security ahead of the matches being played and similar measures could soon follow in the Premier League. According to the Daily Mail, counter-terrorism police have offered safety guidance to clubs in England's top flight in light of the recent threats.
It is said that clubs were asked to 'be alert' to any threats and review their security procedures with a focus on 'readiness and response plans' at their home venues. A 'large number' of Premier League teams are now thought to be carrying out internal reviews of their policies and procedures.
In a memo sent around to clubs, police called on members of staff to 'be alert, not alarmed' and to report anything suspicious to authorities or security staff. They were also reminded that the current terrorist threat level is 'substantial', meaning an attack is considered likely.
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Clubs were also urged to ensure they had plans in place to deal with an attack should one occur at their home stadium. Many teams were already on high alert over the Easter period following the recent ISIS attack at a concert hall in Russia, which is said to have killed as many as 145 people.
Police said they had a robust plan in place for Arsenal's game against Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Tuesday, which appeared to take place without incident. There was a heavy police presence in and around the Emirates Stadium, with the match ending in a 2-2 draw ahead of next week's second leg.
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Ahead of kick-off, deputy assistant commissioner Ade Adelekan said: "The UK terrorism threat level remains at ‘substantial’, meaning an attack is likely.
"We work closely with colleagues from across counter-terrorism Policing in planning for events here in London, to take into account any relevant information that could help us to keep those attending safe. We're aware of online and media reports in relation to calls to target matches across Europe and here in London.
"However, I want to reassure the public that we have a robust policing plan in place for tonight's match and we continue to work closely alongside the club’s security team to ensure that the match passes peacefully."