With the Paris 2024 Olympic Games just seven months away, the French police force is preparing for a large-scale mobilization effort. According to a recent report by France Info, the Ministry of the Interior and Overseas is enlisting its administrative staff, as well as personnel from the Paris police prefecture, to assist in the detection of suspicious devices. Their main mission is to support law enforcement personnel in this endeavor.

This initiative aims to recruit volunteers for missions involving the search for suspicious devices and requires individuals who are willing to transition from desk work to patrol duty. Both full-time employees and contract workers will have the opportunity to participate in this unique assignment.

According to the report, labor unions view these reinforcements positively. However, there are questions about the specific security operations they will be involved in and their responsibilities in the event of an incident or worst-case scenario. Negotiations are currently underway for a potential daily bonus of around 70 euros for participants.

France Info also outlines the training that these voluntary personnel will undergo, which includes instruction on explosives detection, managing public transportation, establishing secure perimeters, as well as conducting searches on individuals, vehicles, and buildings over a five-day period.

This decision to involve administrative staff is a response to the significant security demands associated with hosting the Olympic Games. Reservists, police officers, gendarmes, and even students from police and gendarmerie schools will be called upon to assist. On average, 30,000 law enforcement personnel will be deployed each day, with the number rising to 45,000 for the opening ceremony.

The collaboration between administrative staff and law enforcement reflects the comprehensive approach being taken to ensure a safe and secure environment for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics.