G4S' failed promise raises security concerns over the Olympic Games

14 July, 2012

London Olympics is already one of the most expensive games in the Olympic history. But, G4S, one of the biggest security firms has failed to deliver its promise of delivering with the required number of security personnel.

ONE OF the most awaited mega events of the year, 2012 London Olympic Games is here upon us, just two weeks away. It is scheduled to start from 27 July and end on 12 August 2012. The athletes are in their final practice sessions, the stadiums are ready, tickets are sold, visitors are strolling, hotels are booked etc. But, one of the most important ingredients for a successful Olympic Games does not seem to be on the right track - Olympic Games security.

It has been reported by the BBC that G4S does not have enough trained security staff for the Games. G4S had been involved in a deal which amounted to 284 million GBP to provide them the much needed security for the Games, but they have failed to. One of the biggest security firms of the world, G4S has come under scrutiny and there are chances that the firm might also be banned for such kind of government work. It is humiliating for the firm as they were recently confident about their preparations.

So, there was an urgent need for the authorities to look into the matter and solve the crisis. Now Britain has put around 3500 soldiers ready for the games, if and when required. This means that the London Olympics is going to be one of the most guarded Olympics, which would witness around 17,000 troops patrolling the games’ venues. Is there a serious need for such kind of an arrangement?

The authorities do not want to keep any stone unturned in the run up to the competition nor during the Games. Hence, such numbers are deployed during the Games. London has already faced the brunt of a terrorist attack in 2005, so they are keeping a very close eye to avoid such attacks. One also still remembers the 1972 Munich Games, which witnessed the worst attack in a sporting event. No one would want to remember the Games for such things but for the quality of the Games. The quality of the Games would be the main objective for the London Olympics organisers too.