Beijing mobilizes police, civilians for APEC security

BEIJING -- Beijing police said they will deploy 28,000 police officers each day starting Thursday as the Chinese capital raises security for this week's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting.

Another 800,000 civilians will be mobilized to aid in security in the city, said an official with the Beijing Municipal Security Bureau (BMSB).

The official said all police officers will be put on duty to crack down on crime and guard the city against terrorism. Motorcycle police, police dogs, surveillance video and other security measures will be stepped up in downtown areas.

Meanwhile, checkpoints and temporary roadblocks have been added to strengthen checks on vehicles and people entering Beijing.

BMSB said earlier they had seized 1,003 suspects, 1,235.3 grams of drugs, 881 kilograms of dangerous chemicals, more than 1,000 knives, and illegal fireworks through vehicle checks.

In downtown Beijing, 161 police stations are equipped with bulletproof helmets, knife-proof uniforms and explosion-proof blankets. Police also bought a medium-sized helicopter capable of taking high-definition pictures and carrying more relief.

A series of APEC meetings bearing the theme "Shaping the Future through Asia-Pacific Partnership" will be held from Nov. 5 to 11 in Beijing, one of the city's highest-profile international events since the 2008 Olympics.

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