Beijing adds police dogs to anti-terror campaign

BEIJING - Beijing is deploying more police dogs in the capital's tightened anti-terrorism campaign, municipal public security authorities said Sunday.

Police are told to bring large-breed dogs, such as German Shepherds, during their routine patrols in densely populated areas such as urban centers and transport hubs, according to the municipal public security office.

Beijing police have now trained more than 650 dogs.

Dogs have joined police patrols in key areas of downtown Beijing, such as Tian'anmen Square, train stations, open markets and pedestrian streets, since the beginning of this year.

"We plan to expand their work to the peripheral areas of Beijing, especially around the train and bus stations," said an official with the office.

The dogs are also expected to help police deal with terrorist attacks and keep order in large-scale gatherings.

Following fatal terrorist attacks in recent months, China has relaxed controls on armed patrols and reinforced public security to prevent and crack down on criminal activities.