In preparation for the World Cup quarterfinal match between France and Morocco, Paris is implementing unprecedented security measures. French authorities are mobilizing additional law enforcement to prevent a repeat of violent incidents that occurred in 2022 when the two teams faced off in the semifinals.
The match is labeled as high-risk, particularly due to the significant Moroccan community in the French capital and the previous disturbances recorded after their last encounter during the World Cup in Qatar.
Use of Drones, Bans, and Subway Closures
According to Le Parisien, the Paris Police Prefecture has sanctioned the use of drones for city surveillance during the match.
These special measures will commence on Thursday at 8 PM local time, one hour before the game, and will include a ban on the use of fireworks in designated areas.
Authorities will closely monitor the Champs-Elysees, a site of previous incidents following the France vs. Morocco semifinal in 2022, as well as during celebrations of the Champions League victory.
To minimize the risk of large groups of fans gathering, several subway stations near the boulevard will be closed for the evening. Additionally, many local businesses have opted to protect their storefronts and shops out of concern for potential vandalism or looting.
Aiming to Prevent 2022’s Aftermath
The security apparatus is also influenced by the events that transpired after the World Cup semifinal in Qatar, where France eliminated Morocco.
During that time, over 266 arrests were made nationwide, with 167 occurring in Paris alone.
Authorities are considering the sizable Moroccan community in the Paris region, which numbers approximately 300,000 according to French government statistics, within a total of 2.2 million Moroccans living in France.
As a result, law enforcement will be heavily present in sensitive areas, with heightened surveillance throughout the match and after the final whistle.
