Increased security around the world ready for New Year parties

Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Plans are being made worldwide for tighter security during New Year's Eve celebrations Monday as millions prepare for 2019.

New York City authorities said there are no credible threats, but they will ratchet up security in Times Square. More than five dozen sanitation trucks and almost 200 police cars will block intersections leading to walking areas, WABC-TV reported.

Streets into Times Square, where more than two million people are expected to celebrate the New Year, were closed at 4 a.m. Monday. Authorities are urging people to take public transportation to the area.

"When it comes to the safety and protection we provide on New Year's Eve, there will be much the public will see and much the public will not see," NYPD Commissioner James O'Neill said. "This is going to be one of the most well-policed, best-protected events at one of the safest venues in the entire world."

In Chicago, police Supt. Eddie Johnson announced Sunday more officers will be dispatched downtown and into neighborhoods Monday night ahead of celebrations.

"You'll see high visibility, you know, of course in the downtown area," Johnson said, WMAQ-TV reported. "You'll see officers almost on every corner...we want people to be safe, in any part of the city. Especially during the holiday season."

Concerns arose over the weekend when Chicago authorities acknowledged at least three people were beaten Saturday night near a transit station by a gang of about 50.

In France, authorities said nearly 148,000 police officers and troops will be spread throughout the country with the "Yellow Vest" protesters threatening disruptions, Bloomberg reported.

Police plan to create a perimeter around Champs-Elysees in Paris and secure retail centers, public spaces and transport networks. Some demonstrators said they planned on protesting at Champs-Elysees after a televised speech by French President Emmanuel Macron.

"The 2019 New Year celebrations are happening in the context of a still high terror threat and unannounced protests in public spaces," the interior ministry said.

In Pakistan, authorities in Lahore will dispatch thousands of officers Monday to increase security. Deputy Inspector General Operations Muhammad Waqas Nazir warned police will be looking to stifle "anti-social activity."

In Turkey, Istanbul police said nearly 40,000 security personnel will be fanned out Monday night and early Tuesday. Horse-mounted officers will be in the city's most crowded areas, officials said.