The Police on Monday revealed a series of measures aimed at preventing and combatting organised crime and football violence.
Immediate steps to combat organised and serious crime were detailed, including an increase in police presence on the front lines and the deployment of foot and motorised patrols in urban and suburban areas.
The Police also said it will reinforce its intelligence unit. Simultaneously, the Economic Crime Investigation Office is set to receive additional support.
Financial investigations will be intensified to identify and confiscate proceeds derived from illegal activities, with undisclosed security measures implemented for operational effectiveness, Police said.
Turning attention to fan violence, the Police announced measures to enhance safety during matches. This includes stricter law enforcement measures, thorough checks of individuals entering sports venues, and the authority for the Police to determine fan arrival times in specific matches.
Additional steps involve scrutinising the operation of fan clubs nationwide and issuing closure orders where necessary. In cases where safety concerns arise regarding match conduct, the Police will enforce existing legislation and recommend non-conduct or interruption.
Simultaneously, the Ministry of Justice and Public Order submitted a legislative amendment to the House of Representatives on January 17, 2024. The proposed changes include mandatory closed-circuit monitoring systems in sports venues hosting first-division matches, regardless of capacity.
The amendment also grants the Police authority to conduct alcohol and drug tests on fans, aiming to enforce legislation prohibiting entry for those under the influence. Furthermore, it proposes an extension of the duration of exclusion orders from sports venues that the Court can impose to up to ten years, as well as the strengthening of fan card checks with Police involvement in relevant controls.
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