Police mobilise heavy security ahead of Maccabi Tel Aviv basketball game in Germany

Admin l Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2024

BERLIN – Police in Berlin are planning an extensive security presence around an upcoming basketball game between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Alba Berlin to deter any possible anti-Israeli violence or clashes with protesters.

“We will show a public presence. That means we will be present in the arena with police officers and support the security forces,” a police spokesman told dpa.

Alba will welcome the Israeli league champions to Berlin on Thursday evening.

Numerous police officers will be on duty in and around the arena and there will be extensive security measures in place, the spokseman said.

Berlin police pointed to violence and anti-Semitic incidents three weeks ago at Maccabi Tel Aviv’s football match at Ajax Amsterdam in the Netherlands.

The area around Berlin’s Uber Arena, where Alba Berlin play matches, as well as the hotel where Macabi Tel Aviv are staying will be cordoned off by police. The Israeli team will also be escorted by police from the hotel to the arena.

“Our aim is to ensure the highest possible level of protection and security at every stage,” said the police spokesman.

No protests or demonstrations have been announced around the game, but police said they are expecting actions and “have to be prepared for these scenarios,” according to the spokesman.

Alba Berlin urged fans to arrive early for the game due to the increased security around the arena.

Alba’s co-captain Jonas Mattisseck noted that there were signficantly fewer fans than normal at the most recent game between Alba Berlin and Macabi Tel Aviv in February, which was also played under heightened security.

“Of course you have respect for it, but you try not to let it get to you too much,” he said of the security, adding that the players are trying to concentrate on the sporting side of things.