Canada’s largest-ever security operation came into full effect on Monday as police aim to ensure the safety of all athletes and spectators at the upcoming Pan Am Games.
Miles of fencing now surround the athlete’s village and other venues where the Games will take place. Security cameras have been installed around the venues and guards are present at every gate.
“We have over 30 venues,” said Toronto Police Staff Sgt. Devin Kealey. “Each one of those venues has to be swept and secured.”
The Pan Am Games are the largest multi-sport event Canada has ever hosted. As a result, it will require the country’s largest-ever security plan.
The Ontario government has budgeted $239 million for event security.
Police say there is no known threat. The event is being treated as a “medium” level security threat, but police say all necessary precautions have been taken.
There are 10 police forces involved in the operations, including the Ontario Provincial Police, the RCMP, and eight municipal police departments.
The integrated security unit, headquartered in Brampton, is now fully operational.
For security reasons, organizers have not released the exact number of police officers who will be on during the games.
Athletes will start to arrive in Toronto on July 1 and sporting events will begin on July 10.
With a report from Naomi Parness
