With the Paris Olympics just a month away, city police chief Laurent Nunez addressed security concerns at a news conference. Nunez highlighted the threat of terrorism, particularly from Islamic terrorists, as well as the low-intensity threats from radical environmentalists, left-wing extremists, and the pro-Palestinian movement. Despite no clear-cut threats to the Games or the country, Nunez mentioned that two individuals were arrested in May for planning an attack on the Olympic Games. To ensure security, plans were made to deploy around 30,000 police officers daily, with a peak of 45,000 for the opening ceremony on the Seine river. The military will also support the police, with about 18,000 members involved in the operation.
General Christophe Abad, in charge of military operations in Paris, noted that this would be the most massive mobilization of military forces on French soil since the end of World War II. During the opening ceremony, 35 security boats will accompany the 94 riverboats carrying athletes along a six-kilometer section of the Seine. Snipers will be stationed along the route, and the three tactical forces of the French police – BRI, RAID, and GIGN – will cooperate for the first time. The goal is to create a secure ‘bubble’ on the ground, in the air, and in the water to ensure the safety of all participants and spectators.
Nunez reassured the public that police plans for securing the Paris Games would remain unchanged regardless of the results of the upcoming snap elections. There have been concerns about potential far-right party National Rally winning the elections and playing a significant role in President Macron’s government, leading to street protests. However, Nunez stated that he has substantial reinforcements to handle any demonstrations that may occur. Addressing private security concerns, the number of projected security agents for the Olympics is expected to be about 25,000, exceeding the initial estimate of 20,000. Organizers are confident that they will be able to meet all their security needs, with 93% of them already being fulfilled, and only 400 more security agents needed for the opening ceremony.
Despite the various threats and concerns, Nunez emphasized that there is no clear-cut threat to the Paris Olympics or the country as of now. The extensive security measures put in place, including the collaboration between police and military forces, aim to ensure the safety and smooth running of the Games. With the deployment of thousands of police officers and military members, along with the presence of snipers and security boats during the opening ceremony, the authorities are taking all necessary precautions to prevent any potential security threats. The cooperation between different tactical forces of the French police further strengthens the security arrangements for the Paris Olympics.
The high level of security measures to be implemented during the Paris Olympics underscores the importance of ensuring the safety of all participants, spectators, and residents of the city. The massive mobilization of police officers and military personnel, along with the coordination between various security forces, reflects the serious approach towards addressing potential security threats. Despite the challenges posed by various extremist groups and the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming elections, the authorities are prepared to respond effectively to any security risks that may arise. By maintaining a strong security presence and implementing comprehensive security plans, the organizers of the Paris Olympics are prioritizing the safety and security of all individuals involved in the event.
