Amid security concerns after the attack on a Tunisian resort, police seized a drone that was flying over Wimbledon a day ahead of the start of the Grand Slam tennis event.
The drone was being flown by a man from a nearby golf course on Saturday, but he sent it directly above Wimbledon’s All England Lawn Tennis Club.
Reports indicate that the majority of those killed in the attack were British , prompting officials to tighten security to protect players and fans who attend Wimbledon. With 38 counted dead, 23 of them are feared to be British. Inspector Roger Robinson said they were taking the matter seriously and will protect the safety of those attending Wimbledon.
“It is an offence to fly a drone within 50 meters of a structure. Anyone intending to fly a drone should give prior consideration to the surrounding landscape and any structures or venues. While it is not our intention to prevent people from enjoying the use of drones, it is important that regulations are adhered to.”
Scotland Yard Chief Superintendent Stuart Macleod added that they are always prepared to provide extra security for Wimbledon, one of its country’s biggest sporting events, and this year’s event will be no exception.
“The Wimbledon Tennis Championships are a regular feature in our calendar and one of the great British sporting events which we are ready to police. This year’s event will be policed to a level proportionate with the current threat level… The Championships draw not just a large proportion of Londoners to SW19, but people from all over the country and the world travel to watch the event as well.”
Macleod continued on saying that the protection of people attending Wimbledon will take highest priority, but he warned attendees to be on alert and be wary of those who might take advantage of the situation.
“We remind everyone attending The Championships to take extra care of their property, especially handbags, wallets and mobile phones. Please keep your valuables and other items secure and with you at all times. Staff from the All England Club, security and police officers will be visible throughout the grounds and anyone who sees anything suspicious should approach us with their concerns.”
Britain’s Andy Murray looks to defend his Wimbledon title when the tournament begins Monday. Murray, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams, and Maria Sharapova were among the big names all present at the Club on Saturday during the incident and will be competing in the tournament.
[Image via DRONES ]
