High security for the Indian Premier League

By Mandisi Tyulu
17 April 2009

The South African Security Forces, comprising inter alia of the South African Police Service, South African National Defense Force and the National Intelligence Agency, will be safe guarding the Indian Premier League matches which will be taking place at eight stadiums in six Provinces namely Gauteng, the Western Cape, the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu Natal, the Free State and the Northern Cape.

Captain Dennis Adriao says the ability of the South African Security Forces to safe guard major events has been internationally recognized with 141 international events having taken place in South Africa since 1994 without any serious incident.

“We are confident that we have the capacity to ensure a safe and secure environment for the 2009 General Elections to take place freely and fairly and to safe guard the Indian Premier League matches. The South African Security Forces have the ability to handle multiple events in various Provinces, said Captain Adriao.

“As in any other country in the world tourists should be vigilant and not openly flaunt valuables when visiting our country’s beautiful sigh-seeing spots.”

Security measures will be in place at all stadiums and spectators that are unruly or fail to comply with security arrangements will face possible prosecution. A zero tolerance attitude to crime or unruly behavior will be enforced. Certain areas and streets in and around the venues will be closed to traffic during these events, added Adriao.

“We are confident that, from past experience, both spectators and local communities will co-operate with security forces to ensure a successful tournament.’’