BASQUE security minister Bingen Zupiria insists police will be out in force to crackdown on “acts of violence and vandalism” in Bilbao this week.
But he also says he expects NO problems from the visit of Rangers fans ahead of tomorrow night’s Europa League quarter final.
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Up to 5,000 supporters of the Ibrox club are expected in Spain for their side’s second leg against Athletic Bilbao.
It’s the largest ever away following to visit the city, far outnumbering the numbers taken by clubs who have played in Bilbao this season – Roma, Viktoria Plzen, Elfsborg, Slavia Prague and AZ Alkmaar.
The Basque police force – the Ertzaintza – has already seen all leave cancelled for this week as they mount a huge security operation.
They have also doubled the checkpoints for the game with fencing erected around the stadium.
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That’s in an attempt to avoid a repeat of ugly incidents that occurred during their Round of 16 tie against Roma.
But the region’s government security minister has attempted to reassure locals ahead of the game.
Zupiria said: “The Ertzaintza will do everything it can to prevent acts of violence and vandalism.
“We believe this will be a normal situation.
“I would point out that there were several thousand Bilbao fans in both Scotland last week and in Seville last year for the Copa del Rey final and there were no incidents to report.
“The Scottish fans are among the thousands of visitors who will arrive this week in Bilbao to celebrate the Easter holidays.
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“It’s an opportunity to showcase and enjoy the city – that should be the main objective.
“I can guarantee the Ertzaintza will be highly visible to facilitate this.”
