New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a significant boost in security measures for the upcoming T20 Cricket World Cup, set to take place in June. This decision follows reports of potential threats, especially related to the highly anticipated match between India and Pakistan.
Governor Hochul made the announcement on Wednesday, stating that her team has been working closely with federal and local law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of all attendees. “In preparation for the Cricket World Cup, my team has been working with federal & local law enforcement to keep attendees safe,” she wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, while also noting that there is “no credible threat at this time.”
However, a bulletin from the New York City Police Department, cited by ABC News, indicates that extremists might view the tournament and its related events in New York City as opportunities to commit acts of violence or disruption. The bulletin highlighted concerns over recent pro-ISIS propaganda specifically mentioning the upcoming India-Pakistan match, underlining the need for heightened vigilance among security partners.
In response to these concerns, Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder revealed that the World Cup had received threats linked to the militant Islamic State’s Khorasan chapter (IS-K) in April, with more specific threats targeting the India-Pakistan match.
Governor Hochul confirmed that the New York State Police have been directed to increase their enforcement presence, enhance surveillance, and implement more stringent screening processes for the duration of the tournament.
Matches between India and Pakistan are known for attracting massive viewership due to the intense rivalry between the two nations, which have not engaged in a bilateral cricket series for several years due to ongoing political tensions.
The ninth T20 World Cup will run from June 1-29, with games scheduled at nine stadiums across the West Indies and the United States. The much-anticipated India-Pakistan match is slated for June 9 at the Eisenhower Park stadium in Nassau County, New York.