Beijing: Porn, drugs banned

2008-06-02 14:37

Beijing - Foreigners coming to Beijing for the Olympics were warned on Monday that street protests were banned along with drunkenness, pornography, drugs and guns.

In a lengthy list of "dos and don'ts," visitors to the Games were also told that they would need a valid visa to enter the country and would have to carry passports at all times after registering with police on arrival.

China expects 500 000 visitors to Beijing during the August 8-24 Games, which security officials say could be a prime target for terrorist attacks.

In order to minimise the risk, any applicant for entry into China who is considered to be a security threat would be refused a visa, according to the document published on the Beijing Olympic organising committee's website, www.Beijing2008.cn.

"Just because someone outside the country has tickets for the Olympics does not mean that they can automatically get a visa, they still have to go through normal visa procedures," said the guidelines.

Since unrest against Chinese rule erupted in Tibet in March, China's overseas diplomatic missions have tightened visa procedures, making it tougher for businessmen and tourists to gain access to the country.

Prior permission

Chinese authorities have vowed to maintain stability during the Games despite warnings that pro-Tibet independence groups and other activists may seek to disrupt the event.

The guidelines, published in Chinese but not in English, warned that demonstrations were banned unless prior permission had been obtained from the police.

"Public gatherings, marches and demonstrations cannot go ahead without official permission from the police ahead of time," the document said.

China has already made clear that any application for street protests about Tibet or other issues seen as concerning the country's sovereignty or interests would be rejected.

More than 80 000 security personnel including soldiers and police commandos will be part of a massive security operation to guarantee the safety of around 10 500 athletes expected to attend the Games.

According to Chinese law, organisers of street protests must seek permission at least five days in advance, as well as detailing the nature of the protest and the number of people expected to take part.

The document also contained a detailed list of materials visitors are banned from bringing into the country including drugs, pornography, weapons and ammunition.

- AFP