Emmanuel Macron has been hit with another warning as a former police officer claims that the Paris Olympics could be “hijacked” by protesters this summer. O'Bryan Grandison now a policing expert at Birmingham City University, said a “volatile” political situation in Paris might lead to protesters attempting to disrupt the event.
Mr Grandison, who was part of the security operations team at the 2012 London Olympics, noted that recent political demonstrations following the elections could inspire further protests targeting the sporting event.
He emphasized that security organizers would be preparing for “all eventualities.”
Over 16 million tourists are expected in Paris during the Olympics and Paralympics this summer – as well as nearly 15,000 athletes from around the globe.
The Olympics begin on July 24 and run until August 11 at 15 venues across the French capital.
Speaking to Birmingham Live, Mr Grandison added: “Whether it's far-right protests, demonstrations for or against human rights infringements and everything in between, the planning process won't change.
“The policing operation will be informed by the national security threat level and draw upon intelligence from the UK and other global sources.
“Games venues will have several cordons thrown around them, each with its own level of visible and non-visible levels of security, from security officers and cameras to physical barriers and people conducting regular searches.
“Public safety is probably the biggest risk given the volume of people who will be in Paris, so minimizing the risk of overcrowding at indoor as well as outdoor spaces, ensuring people are able to move quickly and safely away from those places, will be crucial. .
“It is about keeping visitors, residents, and participants safe, while being able to enjoy the Games. To have a safe and successful Games is always the aim.”
Recently, violent clashes erupted in the French capital both during and after the presidential elections, which initially saw a surge in support for the far-right National Rally.
An estimated 35,000 police and security officers are expected to be mobilized daily during the Olympics, with a peak of 45,000 for the opening ceremony.
Armed officers and soldiers will also be deployed throughout the city, which Grandison says serves as an effective “deterrent” against crime.
He added: “Officers will be supported by volunteers to provide direction and act as information hubs.
“These volunteers will also be the eyes and ears of the police, collecting information on anything suspicious and contacting officers on the ground where necessary.”