France

Paris Deploys 75,000 Troops for Olympic Security Operation

As Paris readies itself for the grand unveiling of its unique Olympic opening ceremony, a sweeping security operation is in full swing across the French capital, setting a new benchmark for peacetime security measures.

With the much-anticipated opening ceremony scheduled to take place on the River Seine this Friday evening, the city is bracing itself for a flood of visitors, alongside a massive deployment of security forces aimed at ensuring the event’s success and safety.

Tens of Thousands of Troops on Patrol

The scale of the security operation for the Paris 2024 Olympics is unprecedented, marking the largest peacetime deployment of security forces in French history.

Up to 75,000 police officers, soldiers, and private security guards are on patrol in Paris, managing a complex web of road closures, metro station shut-downs, and security checkpoints.

“We are ready,” declared President Emmanuel Macron, his confidence seemingly undimmed by the political turbulence surrounding his recent decision to dissolve the French parliament.

The French government is fully committed to ensuring the safety of both residents and visitors, despite the notable disruptions caused by the extensive security measures.

City in Lockdown: Road Closures and Security Checkpoints

The preparations have turned parts of Paris into a labyrinth of barriers and checkpoints. Approximately 44,000 barriers have been erected, and an elaborate system of QR codes has been implemented to control access to the River Seine and its islands.

Roads and metro stations throughout the city have been closed off, and security personnel are stationed at various points to manage the flow of people.

Tourists and locals alike have found themselves navigating these restrictions. A group of disappointed visitors from Mexico, unable to proceed due to their lack of the required QR code, looked on wistfully as others passed through security checkpoints with ease.

Meanwhile, a weary couple, burdened with large suitcases, was forced to perform a slow U-turn near the Eiffel Tower after being redirected by a French gendarme.

“I’m a little bit worried. I’ve never seen it so calm. Ninety percent of clients have gone,” lamented Omar Benabdallah, a 25-year-old waiter on the Île de la Cité, as he surveyed the emptiness of his usually bustling café.

Security Measures: From Anti-Drone Systems to Demining Teams

The scope of the security measures extends far beyond mere physical barriers. Gen. Lionel Catar, responsible for coordinating the operation, detailed the extensive resources being deployed. “We have demining teams. We have dog teams.

There are anti-drone systems, radars, and divers patrolling the River Seine,” he said. This comprehensive approach reflects the French authorities’ commitment to addressing a wide range of potential security threats.

The decision to relocate the operational headquarters from the outskirts to the École Militaire, located behind the Eiffel Tower, was influenced by advice from UK police following their experience with the 2012 London Olympics.

Gen. Catar noted that being closer to the city center allows for better coordination with politicians and local police.

International Cooperation: A Global Effort

The security operation is not solely a French endeavor. About 250 British officers and 50 police dogs will join French forces over the coming weeks, with additional support from 1,750 foreign police officers representing countries including Spain, Germany, South Korea, and Qatar.

This international collaboration underscores the global significance of the Games and the shared responsibility for ensuring their safety.

Chief Superintendent Matt Lawler of the UK National Police Coordination Centre highlighted the significance of this international involvement: “We’re envisaging nearly half a million UK citizens coming to enjoy the Games. It’s the first time we’ve been able to deploy officers to a major event abroad in this way.”

In addition to the foreign police presence, there has been direct military cooperation between France and the UK on anti-drone technology, particularly relevant during the opening ceremony.

Despite the lack of specific threats to the Games, French officials remain vigilant against potential “militarised terrorism” and cyber-attacks targeting ticketing systems and other critical infrastructure.

Cybersecurity and Information Warfare

Amidst these physical security measures, the French government is also addressing the threat of cyber-attacks. Recent months have seen growing concerns about online interference, particularly from Russia.

French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin expressed frustration over what he perceives as a Kremlin-backed campaign to spread exaggerated fears about the Olympics’ security.

“Interference and distortion of information is not only being carried out by Russia, but also by other countries that we’re watching closely,” Darmanin said, emphasizing the need for a global Olympic truce.

The arrest of a Russian man suspected of plotting destabilizing acts during the Games underscores the seriousness with which French authorities are treating these threats.

French police have been conducting high-stakes rehearsals, including a recent simulation of a hostage situation on a bus, to ensure preparedness for any possible scenario.

Public Sentiment and Anticipation

As the opening ceremony approaches, the city’s atmosphere is a mix of anticipation and frustration.

While some residents and tourists grapple with the inconveniences of the extensive security measures, many share a sense of excitement about the forthcoming spectacle. The French authorities remain confident that the disruptions will be brief and ultimately worthwhile.

“We’re feeling impatient. We’ve spent more than two years preparing for these Games. Let’s hope we will not have to take any action,” said Simon Riondet, commander of the elite police unit responsible for the recent bus simulation.

His sentiment reflects a broader hope that the extensive preparations will ensure a smooth and successful celebration of the Paris 2024 Olympics.

As Paris braces for the world’s attention, the city stands at the ready, balancing the challenges of unprecedented security with the promise of an extraordinary Olympic experience.

 

Gabriel Peters

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