South African police do not know of any terrorism threats to the Soccer World Cup, police commissioner General Bheki Cele said on Thursday.
“There is no threat that we have discovered. We are ready to protect our visitors,” he said.
Cele was addressing journalists at King Shaka International Airport during an event to display police capabilities ahead of the World Cup, which kicks off in June.
He said reported terrorism threats believed to have been made by a group in North Africa had been properly investigated and dealt with.
“The threat was pursued to check whether it was valid. We have found the end of it and there is no need to worry,” said Cele.
Vigilant eye
He said it had been reported that a group said it would be pleased to see the bombing of the stadium where the United States team was playing during the World Cup.
He said the police would keep a vigilant eye on eight countries regarded as high risk. These included the US and United Kingdom.
Several police units on Thursday displayed how they would handle life-threatening situations such as plane hijackings and hostage situations during the World Cup.
The simulation showed how the police would deal with airborne and landborne threats. During the simulation, a hijacked plane was forced to touch down by a police helicopter.
Various police units, such as the bomb-disposal unit and search-and-rescue unit, and snipers and hostage negotiators were on the scene.
The exercise, held at the airport’s cargo section, was attended by KwaZulu-Natal Premier Zweli Mkhize and provincial minister of community liaison Willies Mchunu.
Another exercise would be held at Princess Magogo Stadium in KwaMashu later on Thursday. — Sapa