A Chinese security official has warned that “anti-China” forces and other hostile groups are intensifying efforts to sabotage next month’s Beijing Olympics.
The warning from Yang Huanning, executive vice-minister for public security, reflects concern among Chinese leaders about the possible disruption of an event in which they have invested enormous political capital.
It is also likely further to spur sweeping security measures in Beijing and other Olympic cities that some observers say could cast a chill over Games events.
Tougher implementation of visa rules in recent months has already sent the number of tourists arriving in the Chinese capital plummeting. Some western critics have already dubbed the Olympics the “no-fun” Games, although local public enthusiasm still appears to be strong.
In comments posted on the public security ministry’s website yesterday, Mr Yang said: “As the Beijing Olympics draw daily closer, all kinds of anti-China and hostile forces are further intensifying their activities to create disturbances and carry out sabotage by any means.”
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