Wuxi policeman joins ranks in Rio to safeguard athletes

Shao Weimin(R), the temporary police liaison officer in Rio from Wuxi, hands over pamphlets about consular protection information and safety guidelines in Chinese to Rio's Tourist Police Station chief Alexandre Braga(L) on July 13. [Photo/fmprc.gov.cn]

With Rio de Janeiro set to host the Olympic Games in just one week's time, China's Ministry of Public Security sent Wuxi police officer Shao Weimin earlier in June to cooperate with local authorities in the city.

Shao is tasked with ensuring the safety of Chinese athletes and supporters, and will work as a temporary police liaison officer at the Chinese Consulate General in Rio.

Since his arrival in the Brazilian coastal city, Shao has been cooperating with local security staff to deal with safety issues involving Chinese nationals. On July 13, he distributed pamphlets in Chinese detailing information on consular protection and safety guidelines to Rio's Tourist Police Station chief Alexandre Braga.

As of February 2016, the Ministry of Public Security had sent 36 police liaison officers to 31 countries around the world, including Canada, Germany and Malaysia, since it sent its first officer to the US in 1998.

Security has been a major concern for athletes and tourists, and there have been reports of muggings among Chinese athletes. Chinese hurdler Shi Dongpeng and a cameraman were robbed in what is thought to have been elaborate hoax. When Shi and the accompanying journalist arrived at their hotel, a man reportedly rushed Shi and vomited on him. Their belongings were stolen after Shi went to the bathroom to clean up and the cameraman chased after the man.

The Chinese embassy and consulate in Brazil have issued safety warnings to citizens planning on visiting Brazil for the Olympics.