Half a million people, according to the latest count, wanted to be present at Pope Francis’ funeral. The ceremony was marked by strong security measures.
According to the Vatican authorities, about two hundred thousand people focused directly on the ceremony: 40,000 in St. Peter’s Square and the remaining in the surroundings. Many faithful have waited hours to pray, honor and say goodbye.
For the some of the tighter security measures that there is a record in Rome have been triggered. Thousands of police were highlighted, with reinforcements from various regions of Italy.
Elite shooters positioned themselves in the buildings, anti-bomb teams and canine units patrolled the area, along with firefighters prepared to respond to nuclear, chemical, biological and radiological threats.
The operation was also supported by the security services of the 130 foreign delegations present, ready to react to any kind of threat.
In air and sea protection, military forces highlighted a navy fresher in the waters around Rome and Eurofighter fighters to patrol the heavens. Radars and drones with antibazuca technology completed the device. Communications blocking equipment was ready to neutralize unauthorized aircraft.
On land, ambulances, help teams and medical posts were installed between St. Peter’s Square and the Santa Maria Maior Basilica, as well as in the main stations of Metro and areas of greater influential.
