Security will be strengthened in and around Windsor Castle next week when King Charles hosts President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu.
The visit, which is set for March 18 and 19, is the British monarchy’s highest degree of diplomatic involvement.
Thames Valley Police announced in a statement that substantial security measures will be implemented around the town, including a temporary increase of the airspace restriction above Windsor.
A permanent airspace restriction currently exists around Windsor Castle, but it will be extended on March 18 from 7:00 to 23:59 GMT as part of increased security measures agreed with the Civil Aviation Authority.
Adrian Hall, chief superintendent of Thames Valley Police’s joint operations team, stated that the airspace restriction is simply part of a larger security effort.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
Police said a large number of officers with specialist capabilities will be deployed across Windsor during the visit.
These include search teams, armed officers, mounted police and roads policing units.
It added that neighbourhood officers and teams which conduct unpredictable patrols designed to deter and detect criminal activity will also be in town engaging the public.
The police said they would make use of Windsor’s extensive CCTV network and hostile vehicle mitigation barriers to ensure the event runs safely.
“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.
“We will ensure everyone attending the state visit, including dignitaries and spectators, as well as the public, are kept safe to enjoy the historic occasion.”
Several traffic closures and parking restrictions will be in effect beginning March 17, with cops advising that temporary disruptions may occur on routes in and around Windsor throughout the visit.
Some footpaths and pedestrian crossings in the town centre will also be closed between 9:30 and 12:30 on March 17 and 18 to allow for a ceremonial parade.
Police advised homeowners and tourists to be careful and report any suspicious activities.
“The public plays a critical role to support us so we encourage them to report anything that does not seem quite right by calling 101 or speaking to one of our officers,” Hall said.
“If there is an immediate threat or emergency, then call 999.”
