The police unit was formed after demonstrations during last year's Confederations Cup. Photo / AFP
There will be a RoboCop style to the face of policing in Rio when football fans turn up for the World Cup in Brazil next month.
Members of a special unit set up for the tournament and the 2016 Olympics in Rio have been given 200 sets of the 10kg
"RoboCop" protective equipment, which is flame-resistant up to 427C.
It includes a helmet and vest that protects the back, chest and shoulders, plastic shin pads, a pepper spray mask and a belt for a 40-calibre pistol, stun gun, handcuffs and baton.
The Major Events Police Battalion was formed in January this year in response to widespread public demonstrations during last year's Confederations Cup.
That tournament was marred by clashes between police and demonstrators as thousands protested against public spending on the World Cup. Rio de Janeiro will host seven games during the competition, including the final on July 13.
