As the much-anticipated India-Pakistan cricket match in New York approaches, authorities have intensified security measures in response to a terror threat from ISIS-K. This threat comes in the wake of a deadly attack by the same group in Moscow, which resulted in 145 casualties earlier this year.
Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder confirmed that the threat, initially issued in April, has become more specific. The latest warning, disseminated via a global video from ISIS-K, calls for a “Lone Wolf” attack on the cricket match scheduled for June 9 at Eisenhower Park. “Lone Wolves” are individuals who act independently on behalf of terrorist organisations, making them particularly challenging to detect and thwart.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has ordered the New York State Police to implement elevated security measures, including increased law enforcement presence, advanced surveillance, and rigorous screening processes. “While there is no credible public safety threat at this time, we continue to monitor the situation closely,” Hochul stated.
At a news conference, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman emphasised the comprehensive security preparations. “We take every threat seriously. We have been meeting for well over six months to discuss security and health care concerns related to this event,” Blakeman said, describing the event as “Super Bowl on steroids” due to its high-profile nature and large expected attendance.
The cricket stadium at Eisenhower Park, with a capacity of 30,000, will be under heavy surveillance. Commissioner Ryder assured that every detail of security and safety for residents and attendees is being meticulously planned. The event marks one of the largest security operations in Nassau County’s history, with collaboration from federal agencies, including the FBI and Department of Homeland Security.
The threat to the India-Pakistan match was highlighted by a video posted by ISIS-K on a British chat site, showing drone footage of the stadium and referencing the match date. County officials have requested the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to designate Eisenhower Park as a no-fly zone for drones to prevent potential attacks.
ISIS-K, an offshoot of the Islamic State operating in South and Central Asia, has a history of carrying out violent attacks, including the recent assault in Moscow. The group has also threatened terror strikes in India and Pakistan.
The World Cup Cricket event, beginning with an exhibition match on June 1 and culminating with the India-Pakistan game on June 9, is expected to draw massive crowds, particularly from the expatriate community. This has necessitated extensive security measures comparable to those for presidential debates.
Local hospitals are on alert in preparation for potential emergencies, ready to respond if needed. The British newspaper Express reported that the threat extends to other major sporting venues in Europe, including Wembley Stadium, with ISIS encouraging attacks using drones and firearms.
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Additional police officers will be mobilised at the cricket stadium to enhance security. Ryder emphasised that they have received international-style threats specific to the India-Pakistan game, necessitating such extensive security measures. “When you have a game and a crowd as big as this, everything is credible,” Ryder added.
Despite initial ambiguity about the threat level, Governor Hochul’s administration, in collaboration with federal law enforcement and Nassau County, has been preparing for months to ensure the safety of New Yorkers and visitors. “We track down all of our leads,” Blakeman reiterated, underscoring the comprehensive approach to threat management.
