Aston Villa vs Maccabi Tel Aviv: Police on high alert as huge operation planned - The Mirror

There will be a significant police presence at Villa Park on Thursday when Aston Villa take on Maccabi Tel Aviv in the Europa League with no away fans allowed to attend

Aston Villa's Europa League clash with Maccabi Tel Aviv will see more than 700 police officers in attendance - even though no away fans have been permitted to attend.

Despite backlash over banning visiting fans from the game, West Midlands Police and Birmingham's safety advisory group upheld their decision, but they will still ensure a significant presence. Drones, dogs, horses and 'protest liaison officers' will be deployed by West Midlands Police and a no-fly zone will be placed around Villa Park. The ground will see an unprecedented presence for a game with only home fans.

As part of significant measures, a no-fly zone for drones will be enforced within a one-mile radius of the stadium, per The Mail. Anyone found to be flying a drone in the area between 2pm and 11.59pm on the day of the game will be subject to arrest.

Tommy Robinson's plan to attend Maccabi Tel Aviv's clash with Aston Villa reportedly prompted the Israeli club to decide against selling tickets to supporters regardless of their ban. In a statement, the club said that a 'toxic atmosphere' had been created around the fixture through 'hate-filled falsehoods'.

The force is on alert for the possibility of Maccabi Tel Aviv fans securing tickets and the potential for protests inside and around Villa Park and Birmingham. Birmingham Police commander, Chief Supt Tom Joyce has said to expect a significant police presence.

"Our message to those from all communities in Birmingham is that we have listened and will continue to engage with you," he said.

"We remain committed to maintaining the city's reputation as a safe and welcoming place for everyone. Anyone who breaks the law will be dealt with directly, as will those who incite hate.

"We have been working closely with partners including Birmingham City Council, Aston Villa Football Club, our colleagues in other emergency services, as we put in place our significant policing operation.

"People can expect to see a large number of uniformed officers, as well as police horses, police dogs, our drone unit, road policing unit, protest liaison officers and others."

Joyce is confident in his force's ability to contend with the protests planned. "We know protests by different groups will take place on the day and we have plans in place which balance the right to protest with our duty to protect all communities in Birmingham," he added.

"We are experienced at policing high-profile football matches and demonstrations, and for many weeks now, we have been working closely with different faith and local community groups to listen to their views and concerns.

"Our goal throughout planning for this match is to ensure people can enjoy the football fixture while we continue to keep everyone in Birmingham safe, facilitate peaceful protest and maintain the King's peace."

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