7,000 cops to be deployed

UP to 7,000 German soldiers will be deployed countrywide to protect the 2006 World Cup scheduled to take place in 12 German cities from June 9 through July 9, German Defense Minister Franz Josef Jung said. He pointed out that German troops would be made available 8220;to protect the population and the guests of the football World Cup.8221; The latest number of troops assigned to the World Cup is significantly higher than the initial figure of 2,000 soldiers. The troops will only assist in providing medical services, setting up housing for police officers and checking for biological and chmeical arms and will not assume any police duties during the global football event. The German constitution bans the use of the Army for ensuring domestic security. Meanwhile more than 100,000 police will be assigned to the 2006 World Cup.

FOOTY FACTOID: The 2006 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee Germany are to open an internet ticket portal for fans on March 27 at FIFAworldcup.com. Fans will be able to return match tickets or transfer these to other fans by completing an online form in the 8220;Customer Self Service8221; area. If, for example, a ticket holder wishes to relinquish a ticket, he can return the ticket for resale by the OC without stating any reason. The ticket will then be offered under 8220;Resale8221; at the Ticket Shop provided that no tickets remain of the OC8217;s original allocation for the game in question.