Qatar calls up hundreds of civilians to provide security at World Cup

The Qatar government conscripted hundreds of people to provide security for the upcoming World Cup. Among the civilians drafted are apparently diplomats that were overseas. Reuters reported that those called up mostly serve at military-style checkpoints near World Cup stadiums.

These civilians are being trained to manage lines formed by people entering stadiums, frisk fans and confiscate illegal items. Alcohol and drugs are a point of concern. However, larger security risks such as weapons will be a focal point by the security crew.

The aforementioned report claims that these individuals have training materials on how to find hidden weapons on a person. This includes checking in ponytails, jacket linings and even false stomachs.

Qatar security at the World Cup

Qatar currently has a population of about 2.8 million. Supposedly, only around 380,000 of these people are actual Qatari nationals. The Middle Eastern country is expecting around 1.2 million visitors for the tournaments. Turkey, although not necessarily a neighboring country, is apparently supplying Qatar with 3,000 riot police.

Those being asked to report for duty were ordered to begin their service earlier this month. They attended the national service camp outside of Doha earlier this month. Doha is the capital of Qatar and the main area for the World Cup.

According to the reports, most of the people that attended the initial training session did so out of fear. The civilians were told that they had a “patriotic duty” to help their country. “Most people are there because they have to be – they don’t want to get in trouble,” claimed the source for the report.

There are, however, volunteers reportedly assisting in the security efforts as well.

In a statement regarding the situation, a Qatari government official said that this was all part of normal protocol. “Recruits will provide additional support during the tournament as part of the regular program, just as they do every year at major public events, such as the National Day celebrations,” read the statement.

PHOTO: IMAGO / Action Pictures