The United Kingdom has announced airspace restrictions and heightened security measures will be in place in Windsor ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s state visit next week.
According to Thames Valley Police, the measures are part of a comprehensive security operation being carried out in collaboration with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, the Royal Household and other partners to ensure the safety of dignitaries, spectators and the general public during the visit.
Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall of Thames Valley Police’s Joint Operations Unit said on Wednesday that the airspace restrictions form only one aspect of the extensive security arrangements for the visit.
He said, “The air restrictions are just one part of our robust security operation for the state visit of Nigerian President Tinubu next week, with many measures you will see and others you will not.
“As a force, we have a vast amount of experience in policing Royal events in Windsor and significant planning, and preparation has gone into this event.
“We will ensure everyone attending the state visit, including dignitaries and spectators, as well as the public, are kept safe to enjoy the historic occasion.
According to him, Windsor Castle already has a permanent airspace restriction throughout the year, but the measure will be extended on Wednesday, March 18, to enhance security for the visit.
The temporary restriction will be in place from 7:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. in coordination with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Hall warned that any violation of the airspace restrictions would be treated as a criminal offence under the Air Navigation Order.
“We will be taking a strong stance in enforcing the restrictions; anyone who breaches them will be committing a criminal offence under the Air Navigation Order and could be arrested.
“We will also be deploying numerous police officers to Windsor with specialist capabilities including our search teams, Mounted Section, Roads Policing and armed units, while our neighbourhood and Project Servator resources will also be on the ground engaging with the public.”
Authorities said the security operation would also involve the use of Windsor’s extensive CCTV network, hostile vehicle mitigation barriers and other protective measures to ensure the event runs safely.
Police also urged members of the public to report any suspicious activities.
“The public plays a critical role to support us so we encourage them to report any suspicious activity or anything that does not seem quite right by calling 101 or speaking to one of our officers. If there is an immediate threat or emergency, then call 999.”
