Counter Terrorism Strategies for Stadiums and Large Venues: Tracking Risks Beyond the Arena

In today’s security landscape, large venues such as stadiums and arenas face an array of complex threats. While much attention is given to securing the primary facility, it is equally critical to address vulnerabilities in external spaces, surrounding locations, and other points of security challenge. These areas often provide attackers with opportunities to exploit gaps in the security perimeter, disrupt events, and endanger lives.

In this article, we’ll explore the potential risks and strategies to mitigate threats across these high-risk zones, focusing on a comprehensive, layered approach to security.

The Expanded Threat Landscape

A stadium or venue’s vulnerability extends far beyond its seating areas, playing fields or stage areas. Car parks, adjacent streets, pedestrian walkways, and security checkpoints are equally susceptible to attack. Let’s examine some of the potential threats and methodologies:

Bladed or Blunt Force Weapons (BBFW):

• Terrorist actors may attempt to bring weapons into external gathering areas such as ticketing queues or fan zones.

Vehicle as a Weapon (VAW):

• Vehicles can be weaponised to target crowds outside stadiums and venues, particularly during entry times and exit times.

Fire as a Weapon (FAW):

• Arson or incendiary devices may be used in car parks or outdoor fan zones.

Improvised Explosive Devices (IED):

• IEDs can be planted in external spaces or vehicles parked near the venue.

Person-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (PBIED):

• Terrorist actors may target entrance queues or checkpoints where crowds gather.

Firearms Attack:

• Armed attackers may engage security personnel or attendees in outdoor areas.

Marauding Terrorist Attack (MTAs):

• Coordinated, multi-location attacks often begin in less-secure areas like car parks or adjacent streets.

Hostile Reconnaissance:

• Terrorist actors often conduct surveillance to identify vulnerabilities in external spaces.

To mitigate these threats, stadium and venue operators, and security providers must adopt a holistic approach that includes physical, technological, and procedural measures. Below are some key strategies:

Physical Barriers and Crowd Management

• Install bollards and barricades to protect pedestrian zones from attacks by cars.
• Designate secure entry and exit points to control crowd flow and reduce bottlenecks.
  

Technology Systems

• Deploy advanced surveillance systems with facial recognition to identify suspicious individuals.
• Use bomb-sniffing dogs and detection technologies in parking areas and checkpoints.

Staff Training and Coordination

• Train security staff to recognise hostile reconnaissance and behavioural red flags.
• Conduct regular drills simulating multi-faceted attack scenarios.
• Coordinate with local law enforcement and intelligence agencies to stay ahead of emerging threats.

Public Awareness

• Educate attendees on recognising and reporting suspicious activity.
• Use public messaging systems to provide clear instructions during emergencies.

Intelligence and Data Sharing

• Collaborate with national and regional counterterrorism units to receive threat assessments.

Situational Awareness and Coordinated Communications

• Implement a centralised command centre to monitor live feeds from surveillance systems and security teams allowing for coordinated responses in real-time.
• Equip security teams with real-time communication tools to ensure swift information sharing during incidents.
• Use geofencing technology and discrete notification systems to alert staff about localised threats effectively.

As stadiums and large venues continue to be attractive targets for terrorist activities, securing external spaces and surrounding locations must remain a priority for security providers. By addressing vulnerabilities beyond the main stadium or venue and employing a layered defence strategy, stadium operators can create safer environments for fans and staff alike.

The key lies in vigilance, preparedness, and adaptability; ensuring that every potential point of security challenge is as fortified as the core venue itself.

Martyn’s Law  will come into force this year, mandating enhanced security protocols and preventive measures for public venues. This legislation will play a pivotal role in fortifying defences and fostering a culture of safety across the UK.