About 70 police officers, backed up by reserve police and Royal Bermuda Regiment soldiers, will take part in high visibility patrols over the Cup Match holiday.

At a press conference today, police said about 20 events have been organised from Wednesday evening until the end of Sunday.

Superintendent Darrin Simons told the media: “We recognise there is a small but determined group of individuals who, sadly, are intent on disrupting the peace and tranquillity of our island.

“The policing aim is to reduce opportunities for these types of disturbances to occur. We need the public’s help. We need the public to be vigilant. If you see something say something. Anyone who is acting in a dangerous and or suspicious manner please call us and let us know what’s going on.

“Always be aware of the distribution and consumption of alcohol, as historically alcohol has been a major contributing factor in many of the disturbances we have seen.

“Persons, who are hosting events whether large or small, are responsible for those events are managed. Please take into consideration the age, psychological and physical state of individuals who are consuming alcohol and most importantly always be aware of your environment.

“From a public safety perspective the police will be patrolling on both land and sea, conducting routine patrol and traffic enforcement initiatives.

“We will also provide a high visibility presence at various public events during the holiday period in support of organisers to deliver safe, and as far as practicable, trouble free events.”

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Public Works has granted a traffic order for police to restrict vehicle access to Wellington Slip Road in St George’s during the two days of Cup Match, from 9am to 8pm.

Residents will be required to show proof that they reside in the area and will be required to meet their guests at the entrance to Wellington Slip Road. People who have purchased prepaid parking at the nearby boatyard will be required to display a valid sticker obtained from the boatyard.