Soccer Security South Africa

Is South Africa safe enough for the 2010 World Cup

Crime is always a concern at any event.  Tourists want to feel safe when they make bookings for accommodation in South Africa. One of the top priorities is security during the South African Soccer World Cup. The Minister of Police Mr. Nathi Mthethwa Tuesday sought to allay fears that the 2010 World Cup would be spoiled by crime.

He commented “South Africa has hosted over a hundred international events since democracy… each time there has been anxiety”.

“The message is we would welcome visitors again. The Confederations Cup was a success, even then there were skeptics, but we were ready to welcome visitors,” he said in response to a question posed by a representative of the British Embassy.

England has qualified to participate in the soccer spectacular next year. Concerns were raised over safety and security during the World Cup. The expected number of Britons to visit South Africa is 30 000.

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Preparations from day one

Since the day South Africa won the bid to host the event, the country had been preparing for the event, he said.

"The department has worked in partnership with other government departments for the hosting of the successful Fifa Confederations Cup. "

"All required security measures were put in place to ensure effective safety during the hosting of this event. "

"The tournament further assisted in highlighting areas of our security plans that need further refinement ahead of the Fifa 2010 Soccer World Cup," Mthethwa said.

]  News24.com