Security Upped In 2016 Host City
Two weeks after being named host of the 2016 Olympics, Rio de Janeiro has put thousands of extra police on patrol following a gang-related shootout that left at least 14 people dead.
The fighting, which saw a police helicopter shot down and eight buses set on fire, took place about five miles southwest of one of the zones where Rio’s 2016 Olympics have been proposed to be held.
Brazilian officials have pledged to host a violent-free Olympics and are showing their commitment by upping the city’s amount of patrolling officers.
According to media reports, authorities said the violence has made their promise to improve security ahead of the Olympics – and, even more pressing, before the 2014 World Cup, which will hold key games in Rio – much more difficult.
However, Rio state Gov. Sergio Cabral has reportedly said that a large amount of funds are being spent on programmes to reduce crime and security presence at the sporting events.
During the 2016 bid process, when Rio was up against bidding cities Madrid, Chicago and Tokyo, The Brazilian city was singled out on questions about safety ahead of the vote by the International Olympic Committee.
