17:18, 30 January 2014

In North Ossetia, Olympic Torch Relay was held under reinforced security measures

Reinforced security measures at the "Spartak" Stadium. Vladikavkaz, January 30, 2014. Photo by Emma Marzoeva for the "Caucasian Knot"

On Thursday, the Olympic Torch Relay was also welcomed in North Ossetia. According to estimates of law enforcement bodies, more than 17,000 spectators gathered at the "Spartak" Stadium in Vladikavkaz. The festive event was accompanied by strengthened security measures.

The "Caucasian Knot" has reported that the route of the Olympic Torch Relay in North Ossetia was shortened for safety reasons. In the city centre motor traffic was restricted; and marketplaces were closed. The security at the stadium was maintained by employees of the local Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA), Chief Department of the Russia's Ministry for Emergencies (MfE) for the republic and horse-riding policemen.

The relay ceremony was opened by Soslan Andiev, a Double Olympic Champion and the flame keeper. In the lighting ceremony he was assisted by Khadjimurat Gatsalov, the 2004 Olympic Champion and four times world champion in freestyle wrestling. The event lasted for about an hour; by its end, the stands of the stadium were virtually empty – because of very cold weather, people began leaving the stadium.

Author: Emma Marzoeva

Source: CK correspondent