High profile Events have become preferred targets for Terrorists, comprehensive security demand proper security measures and new technologies

On 22 May 2017 a suicide bomber detonated an improvised explosive device, packed with nuts and bolts to act as shrapnel, in the foyer area of the Manchester Arena. The Manchester Arena bombing was an Islamist terror attack in Manchester, United Kingdom as people were leaving Manchester Arena following a concert by the American singer Ariana Grande. The explosion took place outside of the Arena ticketing perimeter, in the area between the venue and adjacent Victoria station. Twenty-three people were killed, including the attacker, and over 800 were injured including psychological damage.

A major report into the Manchester terror attack has ruled “strategic oversights” and poor communications lead to confusion among emergency services and meant fire crews did not arrive for more than two hours. The 226-page report, by Lord Bob Kerslake, said “strategic oversights” by police commanders led to confusion over whether an “active shooter” was on the loose. And poor communications between Greater Manchester Police (GMP) and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) meant fire crews only arrived two hours and six minutes after the bombing.

A series of attacks in Paris on November 13, 2015, killed 130 victims and injured hundreds of others. A suicide bombing at the Stade de France stadium was followed by more explosions and shootings at popular bars and restaurants. Three gunmen opened fire at the Bataclan venue and killed concert goers who were watching a band perform.

“Our most celebrated and high-profile events, like the Super Bowl and the State of the Union Address, make ideal targets for terrorists and other criminals,” says US DHS. Stadiums, Arenas and Concert Venues are categorized as “soft targets”, these environments are top of mind for ongoing security risk evaluation and continuous improvement to security systems and processes. Large volumes of people gathering in places designed for entertainment rather than security presents challenges for today’s security leaders.   Lone wolf, domestic and international terrorist threats remain a constant challenge for security professionals entrusted with protecting the space.