Be ready for international crooks during Commonwealth Games: Experts tell govt

Don't be surprised if your purse, luggage or other valuables are stolen by some three-piece suit wearing thieves coming from abroad and living in five-star hotels during the Commonwealth Games here this year.

This was what conveyed by a delegation of security experts of Commonwealth Games Federation when they met Home Ministry officials today.

"Visit by international crooks during big sporting events is very common. The security experts told us to be extra cautious about such people who may frequent Delhi during the Games," a Home Ministry official said.

During the meeting, the team told the Ministry officials not to be overzealous in ensuring security and offer enough comfort to the genuine spectators.

"They also suggested to have more access routes with adequate police personnel so that while conducting the security drills, spectators' time is not wasted," the official said.

After his meeting with home secretary Gopal K Pillai, security adviser of the Federation Neil Fergues told reporters that they were satisfied with the steps being taken for holding the event in a safe and secure environment.

"We are satisfied with security arrangements. We have raised a few issues. I am not willing to disclose much except that things are going in right direction," he said.

The Home Ministry has given highest priority to the security of the fortnight-long sporting extravaganza which is scheduled to be held between October 3 and 14 here.