By Karolos Grohmann

BEIJING (Reuters). – The incident in which a Dutch reporter was caught up by Chinese security personnel during a live broadcast was isolated and won’t affect reporting from the Beijing Games.

Sjoerd de Daas, a journalist, was about to deliver his live reporting to NOS public broadcaster on Friday during the Games’ opening ceremony in Beijing when he was confronted by several security officers who forced him out of the room.

While the reporter was trying to speak, another security agent tried to place his hand behind the camera.

It was necessary for the broadcaster to break the connection with the reporter. This left the anchor of the studio in the Netherlands confused.

Mark Adams, spokesperson for the IOC, stated that “Obviously, we were in touch with NOS, state broadcaster and it was an unfortunate situation.”

I think that someone was overzealous. “He (the reporter), was able to quickly and with the assistance of staff, record his report to camera.”

Games participants and media are limited to a closed loop during the Games. This includes accommodations, venues, media center, and media.

To reduce the chance of coronavirus spreading during the February 4-20 Games, all participants are required to remain within this loop throughout the Games.

There are concerns about the freedom of visiting media to do their jobs in China during these Games.

The IOC assured them repeatedly that every participant would have the right to freely speak within the loop, regardless of their gender.

“These are things that do occur and I believe it’s an isolated event. Adams expressed hope that it is a rare event. Adams added, “We will ensure you are able to continue your work within the closed loop.”