Pritzker activates National Guard due to possible unrest in Springfield

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker activated 250 National Guard troops on Friday following an FBI warning about potential threats to state capitals leading up to the presidential inauguration.

„Following the violent siege of our country's capital and reports from federal law enforcement regarding threats to state capitals, I am utilizing all resources to protect our residents,“ Pritzker said in a statement.

„Our exemplary members of the Illinois National Guard will work closely with our state police. They will also cooperate with local and federal authorities to keep our capital city safe. We will continue to be fully transparent regarding any new information and the steps we take to respond.“

Governor Pritzker activated troops in the Illinois capital of Springfield. They were seen on Friday as authorities prepare for potential unrest.

„The Illinois Secretary of State Police, along with other law enforcement agencies, are fully aware of potential protests,“ the Secretary of State's office said in a statement.

„The Illinois Secretary of State Police remains on alert to ensure that the Illinois Capitol is safe and secure.“

The department announced that it is ‘taking all available measures’ to secure the complex.

Earlier this week, the Illinois State Police stated that it was ‘monitoring possible events at the Capitol building this weekend’.

The FBI has sent a memo warning law enforcement agencies nationwide about possible armed protests in all 50 state capitals.

You can find more information here.

SOURCE: NBC CHICAGO PHOTO: CULTURE TRIP