Beirut: As football-crazy Lebanon gears up for Sunday's World Cup final between the Netherlands and Spain, police are gearing up for a long night of celebratory fireworks and even firearms.
"The Internal Security Forces' Directorate General has given the command to maximise security, checkpoints and patrols across Lebanon in order to maintain calm, and they will arrest citizens who shoot or light up firecrackers in celebration," a statement released by police said.
In focus: Fifa World Cup
"These measures aim to control the convoys and crowds on the roads which disturb and frighten citizens, sometimes causing injuries, damage and fires," police said.
Police also urged the Lebanese to be "civilised and dignified in supporting" their team of choice.
The World Cup has always been an important event for Lebanon, even during its 1975-1990 civil war when militiamen would lay down their weapons to watch the games.
The elimination this year of Brazil and Germany, Lebanon's favourite teams, has failed to put a damper on local football fervour: cafes and restaurants where customers can watch Sunday's final are fully booked across the capital.
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