Stiff security measures in place for 081EVERY1 Festival

Musa Zimunya

WINDHOEK, JULY 31 – More than 200 trained and experienced security personnel will be deployed around the Sam Nujoma stadium during the 081EVERY1 Festival in order to maintain order come 11th of August.

In addition, Closed Circuit Television monitoring will also be in place so as to anticipate, detect and detect “unsavoury incidents.”

The Festival is will comprise a event’s stellar line up comprising of prominent local and African artists, and at an access fee of N$25.00, the festival is anticipated to draw a considerable number of attendance.

Earlier today, MTC, in collaboration with the City Police Crime Prevention Unit and the Namibian Police held a Press Conference to provide insight and assurance to the public that a comprehensive security plan is in place and sufficient measures in place to ensure a smooth event.

According to MTC’s Chief Human Capital and Corporate Affairs, Tim Ekandjo: “Inherently, any event of this magnitude requires tight security and as the organizer, we will not compromise on that. We want people to come and enjoy without having to worry about their safety nor the security of the vehicles. We are thus looking at having at least four capable local security companies, the City Police crime preventing unit, City Police Traffic Unit to manage and coordinate traffic movement in the vicinity of the stadium, and the Namibian Police Force.”

The stadium gates will open as early as 11:00am in order to facilitate a smooth entrance and avoid crowding at the gates at the last minute.

A statement from MTC divulged that VIP and General access parking areas will available, with two more parking areas across the stadium demarcated for general ticket holders.

In addition, over 65 trained and experienced security guards will concentrate on guarding vehicles only inside the stadium and at the two demarcated parking areas, while some 160 security personnel will be stationed in and around the stadium itself.

Moreover, a “huge and visible police officer presence in and around the stadium (and a) huge presence of police officers in civilian clothing that will be undercover” will supplement the security personnel.

With regards to health and safety, two ambulances will be on standby with trained paramedics stationed on site, and a fire engine will also be on standby. – musa@namibiadailynews.info