Authorities in the United Kingdom have announced heightened security measures in Windsor ahead of the upcoming state visit of Bola Tinubu, who is scheduled to be hosted by King Charles III.
The Nigerian president is expected to arrive with his wife, Oluremi Tinubu, on Wednesday, March 18, for a reception at Windsor Castle.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Thames Valley Police said it is collaborating with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, the Royal Household, and other partners to ensure a secure environment during the visit.
The police noted that airspace restrictions already in place around Windsor Castle throughout the year will be extended on March 18, running from 7am until 11:59pm.
Adrian Hall of the force’s Joint Operations Unit explained that the air restrictions are part of a broader security arrangement for the visit.
“The air restrictions are just one part of our robust security operation for the state visit of Nigerian President Tinubu next week, with many measures you will see and others you will not.
“As a force, we have a vast amount of experience in policing Royal events in Windsor and significant planning, and preparation has gone into this event,” Hall said.
He warned that the authorities would strictly enforce the restrictions and that violators could face arrest under the Air Navigation Order.
“We will be taking a strong stance in enforcing the restrictions; anyone who breaches them will be committing a criminal offence under the Air Navigation Order and could be arrested.”
Hall also disclosed that officers with specialised capabilities would be deployed across Windsor during the visit.
“We will also be deploying numerous police officers to Windsor with specialist capabilities, including our search teams, Mounted Section, Roads Policing and armed units, while our neighbourhood and Project Servator resources will also be on the ground engaging with the public,” he said.
According to the police chief, security measures will also include an extensive CCTV network, hostile vehicle mitigation barriers, and other protective arrangements.
“We will also be using the extensive CCTV network in Windsor, Hostile Vehicle Mitigation barriers, and many other security measures that you may not be able to see to make sure the event runs safely,” Hall added.
He urged residents and visitors to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement during the period.
“The public plays a critical role to support us so we encourage them to report any suspicious activity or anything that does not seem quite right by calling 101 or speaking to one of our officers. If there is an immediate threat or emergency, then call 999.”
Road closures and parking restrictions will begin on Tuesday, March 17, and temporary disruptions may affect traffic in and around Windsor.
Thames Valley Police said it is working with the Civil Aviation Authority and National Air Traffic Services to enforce the temporary flight restrictions. Those with legitimate reasons to operate drones in the area were advised to submit requests through the police email channel.
