With all of the issues at the Rio Olympics concerning security, sanitation, and more, it seems like those who are responsible for security are being proactive in looking to protect the sanctity of the games. During a cycling event in Rio on Saturday afternoon, the Brazilian authorities reportedly executed a controlled explosion near the event’s finish line.
A fully suited up bomb disposal expert was spotted near the blast, leading reporters on site to believe the explosion was both controlled and ultimately contained as a part of an exercise. The explosion occurred while riders were on another portion of the track.
The blast, whether controlled or malicious, came on the heels of a stray bullet striking the media center at the Olympic Equestrian venue, nearly hitting a New Zealand team official. According to Sky Sports, an Olympic spokesman confirmed that authorities determined the media tent “was not the target, it was a stray bullet.”
As for the explosion, Sky Sports reporter Orla Chennaoui noted the mood was celebratory after the blast as the suited up member of the bomb squad was met with “a bit of a slap on the back by a colleague” to signify a job well done. It’s clear Brazilian officials are sparing no expense as they look to make sure that everyone at the Games in Rio are safe.
