Russia downplays security threat to Sochi Olympics
By Ians English
oi-IANS
Moscow, Jan 24: Threats sent to a number of national Olympic committees should not be taken too seriously, head of the Russian Olympic Committee Alexander Zhukov said Thursday.
"Yesterday's (Wednesday') reports that several Olympic committees have received some information or threats via internet could be a provocation. We advise our colleagues not to pay attention to them," Zhukov was quoted as saying by Xinhua.
He assured that Sochi Olympic Games will be safe for visitors and athletes and all precaution measures have been undertaken.
"All necessary security measures have been taken. There will be guaranteed security," he said.
Earlier on Thursday, Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev also assured that no safety threats existed for the 22nd Winter Olympics.
Medvedev said that the Russian authorities have mobilised "sizable" police force to monitor the Olympics and other security services will be involved if needed.