World welcomes 2016 despite fears of terrorist attacks

Millions of people gathered in central squares and streets around the world to welcome the New Year amid terror fears.

At least two million people crowded at Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro to watch a spectacular fireworks show that lasted 16 minutes.

In Paris, thousands of people gathered on the Avenue des Champs-Élysées to enjoy the traditional firework display, while more than 100,000 policemen were patrolling the area fearing of terrorist attacks.

In London, thousands of people gathered on the banks of the River Thames to welcome 2016 with about 3,000 police officers being deployed in British capital.

In Brussels the events scheduled for New Year’s Eve were cancelled due to fears of an impending attack. Six people were arrested yesterday during an investigation for imminent terrorist attacks, while three of them were released later.

In Athens, many people gathered at Thissio, under the Acropolis, and welcomed 2016 while watching the fireworks.

In Turkey, authorities prevented a suicide attack in Ankara, while in Madrid police restricted the number of people allowed to gather at Puerta del Sol for the celebrations of New Year to 25,000.

In Moscow, the Red Square was closed for the first time over fears of terrorist attacks, while in Berlin, one million people were expected to welcome the New Year at Brandenburg Gate and in Amsterdam 10,000 people watched a spectacular fireworks show.

In New York, more than one million people gathered in Times Square to shout ‘Happy New Year’, with authorities being on high alert. The US Department of Justice announced yesterday that a 25-year-old man was prosecuted, as he was allegedly preparing an attack on behalf of Islamic State terrorist group.

Giza, Egypt

Tokyo, Japan

Sydney, Australia