Premier League stars playing in the Africa Cup of Nations will be protected by security so tight that even the official MASCOT has a bullet proof vest.
It’s not only Mola the Lion who is closely shielded. England-based strikers such as Liverpool’s Mo Salah and Sadio Mane and Man City’s Riyad Mahrez are getting armed guards for the tournament in Cameroon.
Forty Prem stars are in the 24 teams taking part in the four-week competition, which kicks off on Sunday.
Curfews have been imposed and armoured vehicles will be patrolling the streets to keep fans and players safe.
The footballers will be guarded at their hotels and training bases as well as by regular soldiers at the stadiums.
