UK tightens security as Tinubu begins state visit to Windsor

Britain will impose temporary airspace restrictions and deploy armed police officers in Windsor next week as President Bola Tinubu begins a state visit hosted by King Charles III.

Tinubu is expected to commence the visit alongside his wife, Oluremi Tinubu, on Wednesday, March 18, with a reception scheduled to take place at Windsor Castle.

In a statement released on its website, Thames Valley Police said it is working closely with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, the Royal Household and other security partners to coordinate arrangements for the visit.

The police said that while airspace restrictions over Windsor Castle are in place permanently throughout the year, the measures will be extended on Wednesday, March 18, from 7am to 11:59pm as part of enhanced security for the event.

Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall of Thames Valley Police’s Joint Operations Unit explained that the restrictions form part of a wider security operation planned for the visit.

“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,” Hall said.

He added that the force has significant experience policing royal events in Windsor and that extensive planning and preparation had gone into ensuring the safety of the visit.

Hall warned that authorities would strictly enforce the restrictions, stressing that any breach would constitute a criminal offence under the Air Navigation Order and could lead to arrest.

“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,” he said.

According to the police chief, officers with specialist capabilities will be deployed across Windsor during the visit. These include search teams, mounted units, road policing officers and armed personnel, alongside neighbourhood policing teams and Project Servator resources engaging with members of the public.

Authorities will also utilise an extensive closed-circuit television network, hostile vehicle mitigation barriers and other undisclosed security measures to ensure the event proceeds safely.

Hall urged members of the public to support the security operation by remaining vigilant and reporting any suspicious activity.

“The public plays a critical role to support us, so we encourage them to report anything suspicious by calling 101 or speaking to one of our officers. If there is an immediate threat or emergency, then call 999,” he said.

Road closures and parking restrictions are expected to take effect from Tuesday, March 17, with possible temporary disruption to traffic in and around Windsor during the visit.

Thames Valley Police added that it is working with the Civil Aviation Authority and National Air Traffic Services to enforce the airspace restrictions, while individuals with legitimate reasons to operate drones were advised to apply for clearance through the appropriate channels.