Police boost security for NBA YoungBoy New Orleans concert amid safety concerns and canceled tour stops

New Orleans authorities heightened security on Sunday for rapper NBA YoungBoy’s concert at the Smoothie King Center, deploying hundreds of officers and specialized units amid ongoing safety concerns tied to the artist’s tour.

According to the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD), more than 400 officers were assigned to the event, supported by drones, tactical units, mounted patrols, bicycle officers, and an armored vehicle. Light towers and increased patrols were also set up throughout downtown and the French Quarter to ensure safety for concertgoers and nearby residents.

“Our enforcement presence will include walking beats, mounted, bicycles, tactical units, drones, one of our armored vehicles, our light towers in key areas and high visibility patrols,” said NOPD in an official statement. Deputy Superintendent Hans Ganthier added that intelligence shared from other cities prompted the department to enhance its security plan. “That gives us concern,” Ganthier said, noting that previous cancellations in other cities led police to prepare “a more robust package” than usual for major events.

The Smoothie King Center enforced a no-bag policy as part of the tightened measures, leaving some fans inconvenienced but others reassured. “I think it’s okay for safety-wise, but a lot of people are overreacting,” one attendee said, while another described the restrictions as “very inconvenient because you have to put everything in your pockets.”

NOPD said the additional coverage may require detectives to work overtime as the city continues to manage a multimillion-dollar budget deficit. The increased police presence reflects the city’s cautious approach following recent security challenges linked to high-profile performances.

The concert marks one of NBA YoungBoy’s major home-state appearances since multiple tour stops were previously canceled over safety concerns.