Spanish Police Deploy 15,000 Officers for Pope's Visit, Warn Drone Flights Are Banned as 'Main Risk Vector'

Summary

The Spanish National Police have announced that the visit of Pope Leo XIV this weekend represents the biggest security challenge in the force's 200+ year history. Over 15,000 officers will be deployed across Madrid, Barcelona, and the Canary Islands. The police have specifically warned about the prohibition of flying drones during the Pope's visit, stating they are the "main risk vector" for security threats. The security operation includes 600 vehicles, an airplane, seven helicopters, and 16 police drones, with a particular focus on counter-drone technology to prevent unauthorized UAVs from posing a threat to the Vatican delegation.