Manchester Arena Blast Prompts Security Concerns Across the Globe

From the US to Japan and Singapore, countries are considering tighter security measures for major public events.

Armed policemen near Manchester Arena where an explosion took place during an Ariana Grande concert on 22 May. (Photo Courtesy: Peter Byrne/AP)

Countries from the United States to Japan and Singapore are considering tightening up security ahead of major theatre and sports events, following an alleged suicide bomb attack in Britain that killed at least 22 people.

The US Department of Homeland Security said it will closely monitor the situation in Manchester and that the US public may experience increased security at public events.

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Japan, on the other hand, said it will proactively gather information.

We have strengthened our position by establishing an information-gathering unit dedicated to international terrorism.

Yoshihide Suga, Chief Cabinet Secretary

Also Read: Manchester Arena Live | 22 Dead, Bomber Killed at the Scene: Cops

In Singapore, the organiser of Britney Spears' concerts in June said they were considering new measures. Yogesh Mehta, project manager at IME Entertainment Group, said:

We are definitely looking at tightening security. All our events are licensed by the police. It is normally advised by the licensing department on what precautions to take, and how many armed guards we need. So we work closely with them.

Singapore, which will host a security summit between 2-4 June, bringing together Asia-Pacific defence and military chiefs, made amendments to the Public Order Act last month.

Also Read: 22 Dead in ‘Suspected Terror’ Attack at Manchester Arena

In Singapore, event organisers are required to notify the police a month beforehand if they expect more than 5,000 people to attend. And the police may refuse to allow a public gathering if it has a direct political end or involves foreigners.

Hong Kong’s AsiaWorld Expo, where Ariana Grande is due to perform in September, said it would enhance security measures for all events. Besides baggage inspection, there will be metal detectors and search dogs, it said in a statement

Hong Kong is already on high alert ahead of an expected visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to mark the 20th anniversary of the city’s handover to Beijing. The Chinese President will also attend the swearing-in of Hong Kong’s new Chief Executive, an event expected to be marked by protests across the city.

Also Read: Who Is Ariana Grande, the Performer at Manchester Arena Concert?

The Melbourne Cricket Ground, Australia's biggest sports arena, said it is reviewing security procedures. Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said the government is working closely with other countries on strategy. Referring to the state of which Melbourne is the capital said, the club’s spokesman said:

While the threat level in Victoria remains unchanged, and there is no known threat to the MCG, we continue to receive advice from relevant authorities and together review our security processes accordingly.

Also Read: Manchester Offers Rooms, Taxis, and Hearts to Blast Victims

SM investments Corp, whose Mall of Asia Arena in the Philippine capital will host Ariana Grande in August, said it would take all precautions.

Our security is always stepped up especially for big crowds like this.

Corazon Guidote, SM investment relations chief

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(This article has been published in arrangement with Reuters.)