Police in South Africa have been forced to reassure those who are attending the FIFA Football World Cup in June - July that safety is being taken seriously.
South African authorities have been angered by the plans of a British company, Protektorvest, to sell stab-proof vests to football fans. Police say the company was causing "unnecessary fear".
South Africa's football boss, Kirsten Nematandani, has assured visitors that all safety measures are in place.
The BBC reports that South Africa has one of the world's highest rates of violent crimes but security will be increased for the tournament.
Protektorvest says there is a "high demand" for protective clothing. It says stab-vests, which cost almost $US70, are the "No. 1 personal protection for the World Cup 2010".
Fans can add their national flag to the vest, or slogans such as "Free hugs" or "Ole".
The Times newspaper in South Africa reports Mr Nematandani chastised the company's owners, saying there was "no need" for "such measures" to be taken.
The BBC says security officers usually advise foreign travellers to guard against "standing out".
Fan groups in England have also condemned the vests.
