‘Entire police force stood up to the occasion’

Providing fool-proof security to Barack Obama was the responsibility of the Mumbai Police. They also had to make sure that Mumbaikars were not affected by the arrangements made for the US president. Mumbai Police commissioner Sanjeev Dayal spoke to DNA after Obama left for New Delhi.

Barack Obama’s visit has got over peacefully. What’s your reaction?
I would like to thank all Mumbaikars, especially the residents of Colaba and Gamdevi. Because, it’s due to their help and support that we were able to provide fool-proof security.  

What were the challenges regarding security?  
The toughest challenge was to provide impregnable security and also ensure that no Mumbaikar was affected by it. At the end of the visit, I believe both have been achieved.

But most citizens complained that there was a curfew-like situation wherever the Obama convoy went. Was it security overdose leading to trouble for the public?  
It was regular security and not an overdose. The routes taken by the president and his wife had to be sanitised while they were using them. The routes were regulated as the convoy passed.

Policemen seem to have done great work. Any message for them? 
The entire force stood up to the situation and did a commendable job.

Do you think the misfiring incident at Colaba ruined otherwise flawless security?  
It was an accidental misfiring that took place beyond the security perimeters of Hotel Taj.

What did you observe in their security personnel? 
Their security is very good, especially their communication system and equipment. We have called for a meeting on Monday to take stock of our security apparatus.