The T20 World Cup co-hosts, West Indies and USA, have reportedly received a terror threat to the tournament from North Pakistan, as per a report on Cricbuzz. The threat, which included incitement of violence against sporting events by pro-Islamic State (IS) media sources, highlighted the Afghanistan-Pakistan branch ISKhorasan’s messages urging supporters to join the battlefield in their countries.
Despite the threat, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has assured everyone about the safety measures in place. CEO Jonny Graves stated that they work closely with authorities in the host countries and cities, constantly monitoring and evaluating the global landscape to ensure appropriate security plans are in place to mitigate any risks. Safety and security for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup are their top priorities, with a comprehensive and robust security plan already established.
Reports of potential threats have also surfaced in Caribbean media. Trinidad Prime Minister Keith Rowley mentioned security agency plans to tackle any threats to matches, with Barbados regional security officials monitoring potential threats to the ICC event. Intelligence of a possible threat through Pro-Islamic State (Daesh) media group ‘Nashir Pakistan’ has been received as well.
Barbados, Guyana, Antigua and Barbuda, St. Vincent, Saint Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago are set to host T20 World Cup matches in the Caribbean islands. Despite the threat, efforts are being made to ensure the safety and security of all involved in the tournament.