Cricket World Cup Security Threat: Pro-IS Terror Groups Target International Sporting Events in Caribbean and US

The West Indies and the United States are set to co-host the T20 World Cup from June 2 to 29. However, a terror threat from North Pakistan has raised concerns. According to reports on Cricbuzz, the threat comes from Pro-Islamic State (IS) media sources, urging violence against sporting events. The report highlights messages from the Afghanistan-Pakistan branch, ISKhorasan (IS-K), prompting supporters to engage in attacks in various countries.

Despite the threat, Cricket West Indies (CWI) CEO Jonny Graves asserted that all necessary safety measures are in place. Graves emphasized the cooperation with host countries and cities and continuous monitoring of global security conditions. He reassured stakeholders that safety and security are top priorities for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, with a comprehensive security plan in place.

Media reports in the Caribbean further addressed the threats, with Trinidad Prime Minister Keith Rowley acknowledging the security agencies’ readiness to address any potential risks to the matches. The report also mentioned how Barbados regional security officials are actively monitoring for potential threats to the ICC event. Intelligence from Pro-Islamic State (Daesh) through the media group ‘Nashir Pakistan’ has indicated a possible threat to the World Cup.

Matches are scheduled to take place in islands such as Barbados, Guyana, Antigua and Barbuda, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Saint Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago during