Police operation for Aston Villa v Maccabi Tel Aviv match 'unprecedented'
Summary
A large-scale police operation is taking place in Birmingham for a UEFA Europa League match between Aston Villa and Maccabi Tel Aviv. More than 700 officers are on duty due to expected protests and potential violence concerns. Maccabi Tel Aviv fans have been barred from attending the match for safety reasons.Key Facts
- Over 700 police officers are monitoring the match between Aston Villa and Maccabi Tel Aviv.
- Protest groups, including pro-Palestinian, pro-Israeli, and far-right organizations, are present outside the stadium.
- Birmingham's police commander termed the operation as "unprecedented" due to the level of interest and concern.
- Maccabi Tel Aviv fans were not allowed to attend based on police intelligence indicating potential violence risks.
- Police are using Section 60 powers, which allow them to stop and search people in the area until 03:00 on Friday.
- The police operation involves officers from West Midlands and 10 other forces.
- Local shops and schools near Villa Park closed early as a precaution.
- Jewish Aston Villa fan Elliot Ludvig expressed concerns about possible violence at the match.
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