As Baton Rouge rapper NBA YoungBoy prepares for a pair of concerts in New Orleans this weekend, the local police department is taking significant measures to ensure safety. The New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) has announced an increased security presence, deploying over 400 officers to patrol the Central Business District and French Quarter during the events scheduled for Sunday and Monday.
NOPD Assistant Superintendent Hans Ganthier outlined plans that include walking and mounted patrols, along with the use of armored vehicles and drones. This robust security response follows the cancellation of several of YoungBoy’s shows in other cities, including Chicago, Detroit, and Atlanta, raising concerns about potential issues related to the event.
Ganthier issued a warning to concertgoers regarding firearms, stressing the importance of leaving guns at home. He noted that bringing weapons to the concert or leaving them in cars could lead to increased risks, including car burglaries. “People that are coming to the concert, people who are going to be trying to enjoy our city, you know, leave the guns at home,” he advised.
The heightened security comes from intelligence gathered from past events and communication with various police and federal agencies, which suggested a need for vigilance. “We’d be foolish not to act on it,” Ganthier concluded, underscoring the department’s commitment to maintaining public safety.
YoungBoy’s concerts mark the finale of his MASA tour, making this a significant event for both the artist and his fans, as well as for the city of New Orleans. With extensive planning and security measures in place, the hope is for a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees.