Police will use powers allowing them to randomly stop and search people as they prepare to crackdown on trouble over Cup Match.

And staff from Somerset Cricket Club will use extra metal detectors and search all bags at the entrances to the ground as they and the Police practise a zero tolerance approach.

The Cup Match period is one of the busiest Policing periods in Bermuda. This year, with Cup Match being held at the Somerset Cricket Club, Police have prepared contingency plans to ensure that the holiday period is safe for all residents and visitors on the island.

Superintendent Mick Jackman said: "We are advising the public that there will be a heavy Police presence on the streets, on the water, at the game and any other major events taking place between now and Sunday.

"We will be paying particular attention to the following areas: gang rivalry and associated activity, use of illegal drugs, impaired operating of vehicles on the road and in the water, speeding/dangerous operation of vessels on the water, speeding and dangerous driving on the roads, any anti-social behaviour and possession of bladed article or prohibited weapons."

There will be random searches of people in prescribed areas for prohibited pointed or bladed articles using powers under section 315F of the Criminal Code.

Police are also stressing that there will be extra patrols during the evening to police the planned events; this will include officers from our Roads Policing Unit as well as the Marine Unit.

"There will be a significant Police presence at the game, and we will continue to have an armed response on duty during this period. There is no specific threat, however, with an armed response available the Bermuda Police Service will be prepared for any eventuality," added Supt. Jackman.

There have been recent incidents of conflict between gangs from Somerset and Town. Police said that they will not be tolerating such behaviour and will deal with any such incidents to the full extent of the law.

Police will be working with the Somerset Cricket Club to ensure that no offensive or prohibited weapons are taken into the ground.

Supt. Jackman added: "We will remind the public that it is illegal to carry a bladed or pointed article with a blade longer that three inches. It is advisable that, if in doubt, leave the article at home. We intend to deal vigorously with any anti-social behaviour inside the grounds to ensure that all persons at the game have a safe and enjoyable time."

The location of the Police caravan has changed, it will be near the previous location but will have to access outside the grounds.

Acting Road Safety Council officer David Minors also reminded the public about road safety, encouraging the motoring public to adhere to the rules of the road.

"Slow down and take your time, secure your helmets correctly, fasten your seat belts and don't drink and drive. We want an incident free celebration. Cup Match is our opportunity to celebrate all that is great about Bermuda — let us make positive choices so that we choose life," he said.

President of the Somerset Cricket Club, Richard Scott said: "We will be working with the Police in ensuring that this is a safe and enjoyable Cup Match holiday. "We will have extra security and metal detectors at all of the entrances to the field." He also said that all bags will be searched as a preventative measure.

Mr. Scott informed the public that the cost of entering the field will be $15 for adults and $5 for children between the ages of five and 12.