Vancouver police deploy record 1,300 officers, seize 40 drones, arrest 16 foreign nationals during 2026 World Cup

Vancouver Police Department reported its largest ever deployment, positioning up to 1,300 officers for each of the seven World Cup matches held at BC Place. Police also managed aerial security, identifying 45 unauthorized drone operators and remotely jamming another 40, bringing down a total of 40 drones over the tournament period.

The department recorded roughly 200 arrests across match venues, fan festivals and the Granville Entertainment District. Sixteen foreign nationals were arrested for public intoxication or breach of the peace, and three Criminal Code arrests occurred at the fan festival. Overall, the police described the event as largely peaceful despite about 500,000 fans attending across the month‑long tournament.