- The United Kingdom announced strict airspace and road restrictions in Windsor ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s state visit
- The airspace restrictions extend Windsor Castle’s existing no-fly zone till March 18, 7:00 a.m.–11:59 p.m
- The Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall emphasised that there are robust security measures both visible and behind the scenes
The United Kingdom has announced stringent airspace restrictions and heightened security measures in Windsor ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s state visit next week.
Thames Valley Police confirmed that the measures are part of a broad security operation carried out in partnership with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, the Royal Household, and other key agencies to ensure the safety of dignitaries, spectators, and the general public during the visit.
The Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall of Thames Valley Police’s Joint Operations Unit emphasised that airspace restrictions represent just one facet of a comprehensive security strategy.
He said on Wednesday, March 11, that “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.
“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.
“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.”
Windsor Castle already enforces a permanent airspace restriction, but authorities said the restriction will be extended on Wednesday, March 18, from 7:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. in coordination with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to bolster security during the visit.
Hall warned that violating airspace restrictions would constitute a criminal offence under the Air Navigation Order:
“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.
“We will also be deploying numerous police officers to Windsor with specialist capabilities including our search teams, Mounted Section, Roads Policing and armed units, while our neighbourhood and Project Servator resources will also be on the ground engaging with the public.”
Authorities added that Windsor’s extensive CCTV network, hostile vehicle mitigation barriers, and other protective measures would form part of the security operation.
The public was also urged to report suspicious activity.
“The public plays a critical role to support us so we encourage them to report any suspicious activity or anything that does not seem quite right by calling 101 or speaking to one of our officers. If there is an immediate threat or emergency, then call 999.”