ROME- The Italian Interior Minister, Marco Minniti, has called an urgent meeting in order to discuss security measures, in anticipation of potential trouble arising from Saturday’s upcoming protests. More than 30,000 demonstrators are expected to occupy Piazza Venezia as they protest against the celebrations of the sixtieth anniversary of the Treaty of Rome.

 Following Wednesday’s attacks in London, security officials will be extra vigilant against the threat of both Islamist fundamentalists and the anarchist group Black Bloc.

 The ministry are taking the highest security measures in order to ensure the safety of its citizens. Over 3000 security personnel will take to the streets, among them specialized surveillance experts chosen by the heads of security organisations.

 Further preventative measures such as temporarily closing the Schengen area and locking down the border during the celebration were also discussed. Although it is clear that these precautions would be a last resort.

 The police are expecting to have to respond to the actions of the Black Bloc as the group’s objective remains to destroy cash machines, cars and windows, whilst also attempting to storm offices and institutions.

 Security personnel have been instructed to look out for any suspicious activity as the number of Jihadist attacks on European cities continues to rise. The increase in radicalisation has lead to a greater focus on Italian special intelligence and the authorities will continue to monitor those considered at danger of extremism.

 Those at the most risk of suffering an attack are likely to be the police and security officials themselves, based on recent incidents. In Orly, Paris and most recently in London, the police have been targets of an attack.

 As a result, Chief of Police, Franco Gabrielli, has advised all members of the force to carry a weapon, even when they are not on duty. He has also advocated the wearing of protective gear whilst patrolling the streets.

The flow of traffic will be prohibited in areas of central Rome and pedestrian access will also be limited during the manifestations.