Retired football great Rivaldo has recommended that foreigners avoid the Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro due to the violence and other problems plaguing Brazil.
"I advise all those who plan to visit Brazil or come to the Olympics in Rio to stay in their own countries. Here you'll be running the risk of death," Rivaldo said in a message posted on his Instagram account on Sunday, reports Efe.
Rivaldo alluded to the murder of a 17-year-old girl during a robbery Saturday morning on one of Rio's main roads, the Linea Amarilla, which links the international airport to the majority of Olympic venues.
Criminals and police engaged in a shootout Saturday night on Avenida Brasil, an important thoroughfare that connects the airport to downtown Rio de Janeiro.
A suspected criminal was killed and four people caught in the crossfire were wounded.
Rio de Janeiro, which is home to nearly 6 million people, registered 1,202 murders in 2015, official figures show.
Rivaldo also referred to the public health crisis in Rio de Janeiro, saying that "the public hospitals lack the resources" to treat Brazilians and tourists.
--IANS
sam/vm
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
