Wembley has ramped up its security ahead of England’s Euro 2024 qualifier after two Swedish football fans were shot in Belgium on Monday night.
Belgium was playing Sweden in its own qualifier – but the match was abandoned at half time and supporters were locked inside the stadium following the shooting in Brussels city centre.
The suspected gunman, who claimed to be a member of ISIS, shot the two Swedes dead and seriously injured a third before fleeing.
Belgian authorities confirmed earlier this morning that the suspected gunman had died after being shot by armed police and taken to hospital.
The terror alert in Belgium was raised to its highest level in Brussels in response to the attack, and to the second-highest level across the rest of the country.
England have just started their qualifying match against Italy, with kick-off at 7.45pm, and the Metropolitan Police says fans will be ‘reassured’ by a ‘highly visible’ security presence during the game.
A spokesman said: ‘There is a robust policing plan in place for the Euro 2024 qualifier between England and Italy at Wembley this evening, building on our shared experience with trusted partners in policing these high profile matches, and to ensure those attending the match can enjoy the sporting occasion.
‘Given the events yesterday in Brussels, those attending the match can be reassured that they will see a highly visible policing presence.
‘Officers are there to ensure the event passes off safely and provide reassurance to those attending.’
Match commander Superintendent Gerry Parker added: ‘We have been working with our partners, including the FA, in the weeks leading up to this match to ensure those attending the Wembley area enjoy this match.
‘Our officers are experienced in dealing with large-scale public order events, and a flexible plan is in place to reduce the likelihood of crime and disorder, and provide a timely response to any emerging incidents.’
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