A crowd of 1.5 million people is expected on Copacabana Beach next Saturday, the day Madonna will end “The Celebration Tour”. The day will be a party, but many fans are concerned about security, although the Rio government has announced that it will make 3,200 military police available and that there will be drones, facial recognition and pockets with metal detectors. In conversation circles and on the internet, the public raises possibilities to elude thieves or to avoid taking risks.
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One of the strategies for those preparing to enjoy the end of the tour is to take an old cell phone instead of smartphones. On Twitter, a user even posted that he would like to borrow a device: “Can someone lend me an old cell phone to go to the Madonna concert?” .
Another user recalled that it is possible to take precautions without having to stop taking the device with you: “There will be Madonna in Copacabana and if you want to take photos and film her show in peace, don’t forget to insure your cell phone.”
In an interview with EXTRA, Juliano Jardim, from Rio Grande do Sul, who usually runs in his spare time, says that he will adapt his physical activity accessory as an anti-theft kit. He will store his valuables in an anatomical neoprene fanny pack, which adheres to the body and is not bulky:
— This accessory holds everything I use for running. It stays well attached to the body and ultra hidden. There’s no way I can’t go to this show! And I’m not even a fan of Madonna.
Security scheme
The operational and security scheme planned for Madonna’s show at Copacabana Beach — scheduled for Saturday, May 4 — is based on what was seen at New Year’s Eve in Rio this year. The device foresees the use of facial recognition cameras, drones, checkpoints with magazines and metal detectors. The new feature will be the installation of a mobile Integrated Command and Control Center in Praça do Lido. There will be 12 extra facial recognition cameras and two drones also with the equipment.
Since last Monday, agents have been circulating around the neighborhood to prevent camping, which will not be allowed. In total there will be 3,200 men from the Military Police, 1,130 from the Municipal Guard and 800 firefighters, including lifeguards. For access to the coast, there will be 12 blocking points and 18 search points. Objects such as glass and others considered sharp will be seized. The PM will also have 65 observation towers on the sand and promenade.
