Heightened Security for PSG vs Barcelona as ISIS Threat Looms and Cyber Attack Rocks Club
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) faces Barcelona in a tense Champions League quarter-final on Wednesday amidst heightened security measures.
This follows a recent cyber attack on The French Club and chilling threats from ISIS targeting the match and other Champions League venues.
Elite Anti-Terror Unit Deployed for PSG vs Barcelona
French authorities are taking no chances. An elite anti-terrorist unit, the BRI (Brigade de Recherche et d’Intervention), will be stationed inside the Parc des Princes stadium for the match.
This deployment reflects the seriousness with which the threats are being treated.
According to The Mirror, A highly-placed source within the French Interior Ministry confirmed the BRI’s presence. They will work alongside regular police officers deployed within the stadium perimeter.
ISIS Threats Target Champions League Matches
The heightened security measures come after an Afghanistan-based ISIS branch, ISIS-K, issued threats against several European cities hosting Champions League games this week.
While Tuesday night’s matches in London and Madrid passed peacefully, French authorities are not underestimating the risk.
PSG Hit by Cyber Attack Ahead of Crucial Match
Adding to the concerns is a recent cyber attack on The French Club’s ticketing system. The attack, which occurred over the past two days, has raised fears that terrorists might be attempting to gain access to the stadium.
Police sources say the Parc des Princes has a capacity of 48,000 spectators, making a cyber intrusion a potential security risk.
Security Measures Upgraded Across Venues
The security threat is not limited to Paris. Following the ISIS threats, all Champions League venues are on high alert.
Increased security measures include deploying additional officers, using drones for surveillance, and collaborating with intelligence agencies.
PSG Not the Only Team Targeted
While playing host to the potentially targeted match, PSG is not the only Champions League club threatened by ISIS.
The group issued sinister messages on social media threatening all quarter-final matches.
One particularly disturbing post depicted an ISIS fighter standing next to the Parc des Princes with the message “Kill them.”
