Over 75 000 police officers deployed in Paris for Olympic Games

Over 75 000 police officers deployed in Paris for Olympic Games

Safety and security are of paramount concern as French authorities prepare to host the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris.

The iconic Opening Ceremony is set to be the first to take place outside a stadium on 26 July, with the traditional parade of the athletes taking place on the River Seine, with the banks becoming the stands for spectators. Some 10 500 athletes will be present. 

The BBC reports that General Lionel Catar from the French military is responsible for coordinating the work of 5500 soldiers in the city.

"We have demining teams," said Gen Catar.

"We have dog teams. There are anti-drone systems, radars, and divers patrolling the River Seine."

Roads and metro stations have been closed. Some 44 000 barriers have been erected and an elaborate system of QR codes has been set up for residents and others seeking access to the river Seine and its islands.

In addition, French President Emmanuel Macron said he won't name a new government until after the end of the Paris Olympics.  Macron said that to make new appointments before mid-August would "create disorder".

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