Jakarta (ANTARA) - The National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT) is working to ensure the security of the venues for the upcoming National Sports Week (PON) in Aceh and North Sumatra.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Colonel Setyo Pranowo, head of the BNPT's environmental security sub-directorate, assured that the sporting event will proceed smoothly, safely, and free from the threat of terrorism.

"We are present to secure venues used for 2024 PON by conducting socialization and pre-audits of facilities and infrastructure," he said.

The BNPT has implemented security measures, including pre-audits of minimum security standards, in accordance with relevant regulations.

Pranowo acknowledged the potential for internal threats at large-scale events like the PON. To address this, a strategic approach is necessary to anticipate and mitigate such risks.

He emphasized the importance of all parties understanding the potential for internal threats, especially in areas like hotels. Thorough screening of hotel employees is crucial to ensuring security.

Meanwhile, the Aceh Police has established a security task force comprising the intelligence department and initiated a risk management assessment.

The PON is scheduled to take place from September 9 to 20, with athletes competing in 65 sports: 33 in Aceh and 34 in North Sumatra.

The sport event in Aceh will be attended by 6,287 athletes and 3,158 officials, while 6,618 athletes and 3,320 officials will participate in the competition in North Sumatra.

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Translator: Agatha Olivia V, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Anton Santoso
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