Police to tighten surveillance at venues hosting FIFA finals in Kochi

A woman walks past a mural of the FIFA World Cup trophy painted by students of RLV College of Music and Fine Arts, Thripunithura, on the wall of the university campus on July 18, 2026, ahead of the FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain. | Photo credit: THULASI KAKKAT

Police will increase surveillance in and around the city of Kochi ahead of the FIFA World Cup final on Sunday (July 18, 2026) evening, with special focus on venues hosting public screenings of the title clash between Argentina and Spain and areas where post-match celebrations are expected.

City police sources said increased patrols were planned around sports bars, restaurants, clubs and other venues that announced live screenings of the final. Additional staff will be deployed if necessary.

Additional traffic management is expected at major intersections and sections where victory parades or large gatherings of soccer fans are expected.

Areas like Kakkanad, Kaloor, Edappally, Fort Kochi and Marine Drive are expected to attract sizeable crowds for the match.

A resident of Murikkumpadam, Puthuvype, Johnson drives through Kochi city displaying cement replicas of the FIFA World Cup Trophy, Golden Boot and Golden Glove to celebrate the World Cup. | Photo credit: RK Nithin

Police sources said the deployment would be increased depending on the crowd participation. Officials said they expected the celebrations to remain peaceful as the finalists do not have such fan bases in the state. “We expect Argentina fans on one side and supporters of the other teams to come together. However, we do not expect any clashes or untoward incidents. Special care will be taken to identify any hooligan elements who might sneak into the crowds,” the officer said.

Several establishments in Kochi, including sports pubs, hotels and restaurants, have announced live screenings of the World Cup final with special night packages for football enthusiasts.

The police vigilance comes days after an argument between Argentina and Brazil supporters in Kozhikode turned violent, following which two people were detained.

Published – 19 Jul 2026 0:46 IST