Rio Beefs up Olympic Security Presence by a Third
The state of Rio de Janeiro will be deploying nearly 14,000 security officers, about a third more than originally planned, during the coming Olympic and Paralympic Games, Military Police General Commander Edison Duarte said on Monday.
Authorities are planning to deploy more officers to the Barra da Tijuca area, where the Olympic Park, Athlete’s Village and most of the sporting arenas are located.
The contingent will be part of the 85,000 security officers that have been deployed to the city. In addition to Rio’s state police, members of the Brazilian Armed forces, navy and out of state police will be on patrol throughout the city.
There will be 3,000 vehicles used for policing during the games as well as three blimps spread throughout the city that will transmit high resolution images in real time.
These announcements come just as many believe Rio is not ready for the Olympic Games. Athletes, coaches and attendees of the Games will also have to brave through Zika, contaminated water and poor living conditions during the two-week period.