Spectator Surge on Olympic Flame Route
The number of spectators along the Olympic flame route has surged past 600,000, as reported by the Ministry of the Interior on Tuesday. This rise in numbers was particularly notable during the 18th stage in Maine-et-Loire. In this leg of the relay, the flame started in Baugé-en-Anjou in the morning and concluded its journey in Angers at precisely 7:56 p.m. with Thomas Jolly, the artistic director of the Olympic and Paralympic Games ceremonies, lighting the cauldron. Despite running 36 minutes behind schedule due to an unexpectedly slow route, the Olympic relay captured the attention and excitement of citizens and participants alike.
One of the highlights of the day was the participation of Patrick Chila, a bronze medalist in table tennis at the Sydney 2000 Olympics. Chila, alongside other notable athletes including Audrey Le Morvan and Matéo Bohéas, participated in a collective relay at La Stella club in La Romagne. Nearly a hundred carriers, including prominent figures such as Arnaud Assoumani, a multiple Paralympic medalist in long jump, Manon Houette, and Marie-Amélie Le Fur, lent their support by carrying the flame and highlighting their respective disciplines. The next day, the flame journeyed through Mayenne, stopping at various picturesque locations such as Château-Gontier-sur-Mayenne and Mont-des-Avaloirs, the highest point in western France, before concluding the day in Laval.
Security Concerns Amid Olympics Festivities
Despite the celebratory atmosphere, concerns about security during the Olympics have arisen. Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau expressed fears that the internal security forces deployed during the 2024 Olympics may not be sufficient to curb crime in Paris. Speaking to Franceinfo, she warned of an anticipated rise in delinquency incidents, particularly as the influx of tourists increases during the games. Beccuau outlined some of the expected crimes, including pickpocketing, acts of violence, and potential sexual assaults, all of which she described as the "classics of delinquency."
One of the major concerns is the expected surge in cyber-attacks, a threat that the Paris prosecutor's office is taking very seriously. Previous Olympic Games have been targets of such attacks, and the upcoming event is not expected to be an exception. In preparation, the Paris prosecutor's office plans to bolster its staff significantly by mobilizing magistrates from the Paris Court of Appeal. According to Beccuau, there will be an increase in the number of immediate appearance hearings, from occasional to daily, to manage the anticipated rise in criminal activity. The goal is to ensure that the event remains as festive and secure as possible.
- One significant symbolic moment during the flame's journey in Maine-et-Loire was when Thomas Jolly lit the cauldron in Angers. This act marked both the end of the day's journey and underscored the unity and spirit of the Olympic Games. Following this event, the residents showed heightened enthusiasm as they cheered for the relay participants, increasing the overall excitement around the Olympics.
- The local authorities have highlighted the importance of community involvement in the relay, which serves not only to promote the games but also to encourage local pride and participation. This inclusive spirit is expected to set a positive tone for the upcoming games, especially as it travels through historically and culturally significant regions.
- Security preparations are in high gear as Paris braces for an influx of tourists during the Olympics. Enhanced vigilance and additional staffing indicate a robust approach to crime prevention. This includes tackling physical crimes, such as pickpocketing and violence, as well as digital threats like cyber-attacks.
- The Paris prosecutor’s reinforcement measures exemplify a comprehensive strategy to handle the expected rise in crime. Measures like increasing the number of magistrates and holding more immediate appearance hearings aim to ensure swift justice and maintain public order, which in turn helps in sustaining the festive spirit of the games.
