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In recent times, Premier League players are facing a new opponent off the field—organized crime gangs targeting their homes for burglaries. The surge in incidents has prompted stars like Kevin de Bruyne, Raheem Sterling, Jesse Lingard, Joao Cancelo, Victor Lindelof, and Paul Pogba to take drastic measures to protect their homes and loved ones.
Rising Threats and Real-Life Raids
The latest victim, Manchester City's Kevin de Bruyne, experienced a harrowing break-in at his 70-acre mansion while he was away in Saudi Arabia. Unfortunately, he's not alone; Raheem Sterling faced a similar ordeal during the World Cup in Qatar, and other players have fallen victim to these foreign crime gangs.
Foreign Crime Gangs and High-Stakes Heists
Reports suggest that organized groups, many hailing from Albania, have set their sights on wealthy individuals, with top-flight footballers becoming prime targets. These criminals often make a swift escape, wearing the stolen goods while navigating airport security.
The Players' Defensive Strategy
In response to this growing threat, Premier League stars are investing substantial amounts in state-of-the-art panic rooms. These steel-enforced safe spaces provide a swift retreat with secure lines and panic alarms. Virtual perimeters, utilizing geofencing technology, form an invisible wall monitored by CCTV and sensors.
Comprehensive Security Measures
Players are not stopping at panic rooms. Additional security measures include the presence of bodyguards, house sitters, and guard dogs. Football clubs are also actively involved, providing lectures to players on how to avoid becoming targets. Tips range from refraining from posting holiday plans on social media until after returning home to having jewelers come to their residences instead of visiting shops.
Protecting the Future: Player Safety Concerns
Beyond the immediate threat of burglaries, the rising popularity of women's football has raised concerns about stalking incidents. Male players have reported being followed home after games, adding an extra layer of worry for their safety.
In a bid to defend their fortresses, Premier League players are not just relying on their skills on the field but are also becoming adept at fortifying their homes against the growing specter of organized crime. As the stakes rise, the beautiful game is seeing its stars invest in unprecedented security measures to protect what matters most—home and family.
Source: The Sun