Pope Francis forced into helicopter to avoid protests
The Pontiff’s plans were changed at the last minute after around 1,500 demonstrators arrived and burned an effigy tied to a lamppost. There were later clashes with police as officers tried to disperse the crowd with six detained and at least three injured.
There had been scenes of chaos as the Pope began his trip through Rio in a modest motorcade after arriving at 4pm local time. Dozens of pilgrims and well-wishers dashed to the open window of his Fiat car to greet the Pope directly.
Security experts said the Pope was left extremely vulnerable during the chaotic scenes when his car was mobbed by hundreds of Brazilians after becoming stuck in traffic in Rio....