Rio Olympics 2016: 5 problems that have plagued this year's Olympic Games

5) Crime wave

Jason Lee (black) was the New Zealand athlete that was allegedly kidnapped by the police

The city of Rio and its suburbs have witnessed an escalation in street crimes in the run-up to the Olympic games, not to mention th organised protests which marred the arrival of the Olympic torch in the city. The security agencies are struggling to deal with a number of crime gangs which try to exploit tourists and athletes alike.

Several startling incidents have come to light – Australian Paralympics athletes were mugged and robbed at gunpoint last month, a New Zealand athlete was allegedly kidnapped and robbed by the Rio police themselves, human body parts washed up on shore near one of the beach volleyball sites. Incidents like these have planted a seed of doubt among athletes and spectators alike as to their safety.

Though the controversies have hogged the limelight, the focus is likely to shift to sporting matters once the Olympics gets underway. As it should be!