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Threats from ISIS at Philips Arena Taken Seriously

Published  November 22, 2015 11:32am EST
US
FOX 29 Philadelphia

(FOX 5 ATLANTA) -- According to an article in the International Business Times:

"Anonymous, the loose collective of online activists, also said the Islamic State group is planning an assault at the WWE Survivor Series event scheduled to take place in the Philips Arena in Atlanta Sunday at 7.30 p.m. EST, as well as attacks at multiple events in Paris."

FOX 5 spoke with Jim Butterworth, Director of the Georgia Emergency Management Agency who said there is no credible threat directed at the WWE event. According to Butterworth, the ISIS group has made a list of possible targets and doesn't think that this is an identifiable threat, which means WWE event wasn't specifically listed. "In light of the world we live in, we take the suggested possibility of attacks seriously," said Butterworth.

"The FBI is aware of reports of an alleged threat that includes an Atlanta, Georgia venue and event. While we take all threats seriously, we do not have specific or credible information of an attack at this time. We have, however, made the proper notifications as we continue to work closely with our law enforcement and private sector partners to keep our community safe," said J. Britt Johnson, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Atlanta Field Office.

Philips Arena and WWE released a statement Saturday night :

"Federal, state and local law enforcement authorities have confirmed there is no specific or credible information involving a threat against tomorrow's WWE Survivor Series at Philips Arena. However, WWE and Philips Arena have coordinated with the appropriate agencies and law enforcement, and significantly increased security measures to ensure the safety of all those in attendance, which is our highest priority.

Doors will open at 6 p.m. to help fans avoid any delays in entering the arena due to the additional precautionary security procedures put in place. Fans are encouraged to take public transportation (MARTA) to the event and are advised that bags will not be permitted in the arena."