The United Kingdom has announced stringent security measures, including airspace restrictions, in Windsor ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s upcoming state visit next week.
Thames Valley Police said the measures are part of a comprehensive security operation conducted in partnership with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, the Royal Household, and other agencies to safeguard dignitaries, spectators, and the general public.
Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall of Thames Valley Police’s Joint Operations Unit explained that the airspace restrictions represent just one facet of the extensive security planning for the visit.
“The air restrictions are part of a robust security operation for President Tinubu’s state visit, with many measures you will see and others that will remain unseen,” Hall said on Wednesday. “As a force, we have significant experience in policing royal events, and extensive planning has gone into this occasion to ensure everyone’s safety.”
Windsor Castle already operates a permanent airspace restriction, but authorities said this 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). Hall warned that any violation of the restricted airspace would be treated as a criminal offence under the Air Navigation Order.
“To enforce the restrictions, anyone breaching the airspace could be arrested for committing a criminal offence,” he added.
The security operation will also see the deployment of specialist police units, including search teams, mounted officers, roads policing personnel, and armed units.
Additionally, neighbourhood policing teams and Project Servator officers will engage with the public.
Authorities said the measures will be reinforced by Windsor’s extensive CCTV network, hostile vehicle mitigation barriers, and other protective installations to ensure the visit proceeds safely.
Police urged residents and visitors to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
“The public plays a critical role in supporting us,” Hall said.
“Report anything unusual by calling 101 or speaking to an officer. For immediate threats or emergencies, call 999.”
