"Officers will be keeping the public safe and to tackle any crime and disorder on Thursday, West Midlands Police said. Police horses, dogs, the force's drone unit, and road policing officers will be out in the city and people not attending the game at Villa Park are urged to avoid the area. Last month, a decision to ban Tel Aviv fans from the event became the focus of parliamentary-level debate. The Israeli club later said supporters would not travel to Birmingham for safety reasons."
"Ch Supt Tom Joyce, said: "We know protests by different groups will take place on the day, and we have plans in place which balance the right to protest with our duty to protect all communities in Birmingham." Mr Joyce said officers were experienced at policing high-profile football matches and demonstrations, and for many weeks had been working closely with different faith and local community groups to listen to their views and concerns."
West Midlands Police will mount an operation of more than 700 officers to police Aston Villa's Europa League match against Maccabi Tel Aviv in Birmingham. The deployment will include police horses, dogs, the force's drone unit and road policing officers. The public are urged to avoid the area if not attending the match. A recent decision to ban Tel Aviv fans prompted parliamentary debate and the Israeli club said supporters would not travel for safety reasons. Police said they will balance the right to protest with protecting communities, facilitate peaceful demonstrations and work with faith and local groups to maintain safety.
Read at www.bbc.com
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