Police in Northern Ireland are reportedly investigating a security breach during President Joe Biden‘s visit to the area on Wednesday.
The Belfast Telegraph reports police have begun an investigation after a copy of the “operational order” from the Police Service of Northern Ireland for Biden’s trip was found on a street in Belfast.
BIDEN RENEWS US SUPPORT FOR GOOD FRIDAY AGREEMENT IN BELFAST
The five-page document reportedly contained information on how police officers were deployed around the city and other security plans for Biden’s visit. It was discovered by a listener who called into the BBC’s The Nolan Show.
The caller, who was only identified as “Bill,” said he found the document down the street from his house. He also said it included phone numbers and other “sensitive” information.
A spokesperson for the PSNI told BBC Northern Ireland it was “aware” of the security breach.
“We are aware of a security breach. An investigation has commenced, and we have notified the senior information risk officer. We take the safety of visiting dignitaries, members of the public, and our officers and staff extremely seriously and will put the appropriate actions in place,” the statement read.
The PSNI had previously touted the security for the visit as the largest “major strategic operation” since the Group of Eight’s summit in 2013.
“The breadth of this operation has been huge and has involved 2,920 police officers from around Northern Ireland. Extensive planning and preparation has been implemented to ensure the safety and security of the US President, his officials and staff, as well as Prime Minster Sunak and other dignitaries,” Assistant Chief Constable for the PSNI Chris Todd said in a statement.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER
Biden was in Belfast on Wednesday to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, which was between the governments of the Irish Republic, the United Kingdom, and Northern Ireland.
The president also met with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and will travel to the Republic of Ireland later in the trip.
