Terror alert for Premier League clubs after Berlin attack

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Internet Desk: After the fatal terror attack at Berlin, the Premier League committee has written to all the clubs of the league, advising them to be extra vigilant against the threat of a terrorist attack. The letter was sent in the wake of last month’s attack on a Berlin Christmas market that left 12 dead and 56 injured.

Manchester United, whose Old Trafford stadium is one of world football’s iconic venues, have already stepped up their security measures.

Following the twin attacks close to Besiktas’s Vodafone Arena in Istanbul that killed 44 last month, United are checking vehicles that use club car parks for bombs.

One United fan, who was at the 2-1 win over Middlesbrough on New Year’s Eve, said: ‘My car was stopped and searched on the way in. They had the long mirrors bomb squads have and they used them to search underneath. It was a bit surreal but if that is what they have to do to keep everyone safe then so be it.’

United were acting independently when they ordered the car searches.

Premier League officials receive updates from the National Counter Terrorism Security Office, and an update in response to the Berlin attack is believed to have prompted the letter asking clubs to be on alert. They also provided security advice, though it is understood the League has left it to individual clubs to act as they see fit.

A Premier League spokesman said: ‘Premier League clubs take safety and security very seriously and have a range of policies and provisions in place. They routinely work closely with the police, and with their local safety advisory group.

‘Following the tragic events in Berlin, the Premier League shared with clubs relevant up-to-date information and guidance provided by statutory authorities.’

Manchester United declined to comment.

The current threat for international terrorism in the UK is severe. According to MI5, this means an attack is ‘highly likely’.

On December 10, hours after a Besiktas match, a car bomb hit a police vehicle and a suicide bomber detonated a suicide vest in quick succession. The majority of those killed were police officers, while dozens more were injured.

In 2015, extra security measures were adapted at Premier League clubs following the Paris massacre, when 129 people were murdered in the French capital.

Three suicide bombers targeted the Stade de France during France’s friendly with Germany. Each killed themselves outside the stadium after failing to gain entry, killing one other person in the process.