New Orleans law enforcement officers are stepping up security ahead of rapper NBA YoungBoy’s concert at the Smoothie King Center. Over 400 members of the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) and other tactical units have been mobilized for the event.

The deployment includes officers on foot and bicycles, drone surveillance, and support from state and federal agencies, in some cases with armored vehicles, all aimed at maintaining safe conditions around downtown and the French Quarter.

The heightened measures come after videos circulated showing the performer walking near the intersection of Canal and Bourbon Streets, where a crowd gathered and NOPD officers escorted him to a vehicle. The department stated that while the footage sparked concern, no arrest was made and no criminal incident involving the rapper was reported.

Ahead of the show, the Smoothie King Center instituted a strict bag policy: no purses, backpacks, clutches, tote bags, or similar items are allowed. Only essentials such as a smartphone, keys, wallet or cardholder (pocket‐sized) and medically necessary items are permitted.

Despite budget concerns faced by the city, officials say the show remains on schedule and that the expanded security effort is part of ensuring the safety of both guests and the public environment.