Berlin : One of the largest catastrophe simulation exercises in the history of Berlin was underway Saturday as security personnel were put through their paces ahead of this summer's World Cup.

Around 2,000 fire, police, army and technical officers participated in the exercise alongside voluntary organisations and medical personnel.

Part of the simulation involved tackling three simultaneous major disasters taking place across the city.

The World Cup, which runs June 9 to July 9 in 12 German cities, is the largest sporting event of 2006 and involves teams from 32 countries.

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