By Keir Simmons, NBC News
LONDON - Britain's military has been asked to provide an 3,500 extra personnel for the Olympic Games with only 16 days to go before the opening ceremony, government sources told NBC News on Wednesday.
Private security contractor G4S has conceded it may not be able to supply the numbers of guards needed for the games.
The company told NBC News Wednesday it is not confident it will meet its original target, which is thought to be in the region of 16,000 personnel comprising a mixture of certified security workers and student volunteers.
It is potentially a major embarrassment for Olympic organizers who have insisted plans are in place to ensure the games is safe.
G4S is has a contract reportedly worth almost $460 million to provide the personnel, many of whom are still being trained.
London police make dozens of arrests during a series of raids that targeted suspected pickpockets before next month's Olympics. Msnbc.com's Al Stirrett reports.
The military have previously been asked to provide a total of about 13,000 personnel, including up to 7,500 to provide civilian security at games venues. The remainder will be involved in military operations linked to games security.
It is understood some of the extra 3,500 will come from a contingency of 1,000 soldiers on standby for Olympic emergencies.
The news follows reports last month of serious concerns within the Home Office that G4S would be unable to meet its obligations for the Olympics.
This story was first published by ITV News, the UK partner of NBC News.
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