Britain imposes air and road limits ahead of Tinubu's official trip

The United Kingdom is set to enforce airspace restrictions and bolstered security measures in Windsor, in anticipation of President Bola Tinubu's state visit, scheduled to take place next week.

Thames Valley Police has revealed that these measures are part of a multifaceted security operation, conducted in conjunction with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, the Royal Household, and other key partners, to guarantee the safety of dignitaries, onlookers, and the general public during the visit.

Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall of Thames Valley Police's Joint Operations Unit stated on Wednesday that the airspace restrictions constitute just one facet of the comprehensive security arrangements for the visit, which will also involve a range of both visible and invisible measures.

According to Hall, Thames Valley Police boasts extensive experience in policing royal events in Windsor, and as such, has devoted significant planning and preparation to this particular event, ensuring the safety of all attendees, including dignitaries, spectators, and the public at large.

Windsor Castle is already subject to a permanent airspace restriction throughout the year, but this measure will be temporarily extended on Wednesday, March 18, to further enhance security for the visit, with the temporary restriction in place from 7:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. in coordination with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

Chief Superintendent Hall warned that any breach of the airspace restrictions would be treated as a criminal offence under the Air Navigation Order, emphasizing that authorities will adopt a stringent approach to enforcing these restrictions, with potential arrests for those who violate them.

The security operation will also involve the deployment of numerous police officers to Windsor, equipped with specialist capabilities, including search teams, the Mounted Section, Roads Policing, and armed units, in addition to neighbourhood and Project Servator resources engaging with the public.

Authorities have also announced that the security operation will utilize Windsor's extensive CCTV network, hostile vehicle mitigation barriers, and other protective measures to ensure the event unfolds safely and without incident.

The police have urged members of the public to report any suspicious activities, emphasizing the crucial role the public plays in supporting the security effort, and encouraging individuals to report any suspicious activity by calling 101 or speaking with one of the officers on the ground.

In the event of an immediate threat or emergency, the public is advised to call 999, as the police strive to create a safe and secure environment for all attendees of the state visit.