Security top priority for Vincy Heat vs USA match

Security is top priority at the World Cup qualifying football match between St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) and the USA, set for next week at the Arnos Vale Playing Field.{{more}}

Last Tuesday, at a media conference at the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation (SVGFF) office, the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) outlined some of the security measures that are being put in place.

Assistant Superintendent of Police Benzel Samuel, who is part of the LOC, urged Vincentians to be their brother’s keeper, stating, “If you see something and you know something, say something.”

He advised persons to make their way to the venue early to avoid long lines, as the gates will open from noon. Samuel noted that, unlike previous football matches held at the Arnos Vale Playing Field, spectators would not be allowed to enter the field at the end of the match.

It was also declared that as early as August 29, the venue will be “locked down” and will be off limits to the public, with only workers of the National Sports Council and persons who have pre-match duties allowed there.

The ASP told members of the media that the security plans for the match have had input from the Regional Security System (RSS), as well as local, regional and international security agencies, to ensure that it fits the seriousness of the occasion.

Expected in for the match are high level

personnel, including the

president of the US Soccer Federation, the managing director of the US Soccer Federation and the US ambassador to the OECS.

The contingent from the US will comprise 60 persons, inclusive of players, management and security officials. US soccer authorities have requested 20 VIP passes, 172 complimentary tickets, 150 for fans and 10 media officials.

As a result of the visit of these officials, the President’s Suite at the Arnos Vale Sporting Complex will see a facelift, inclusive of new furnishings, with other areas of the facility being spruced up.

September 2 has been declared a half-holiday for public servants. Match time is 3:30 p.m.(RT)