In a significant move to enhance public safety, the Hebei Provincial Public Security Department has fully implemented armed gun patrols across the province. This initiative ensures that in the event of emergencies or extreme situations, armed patrol teams can respond swiftly and efficiently. The deployment aims to strengthen security in high-traffic areas and improve the overall capability of law enforcement to handle critical incidents.
Armed patrols are currently active in key locations such as central business districts, train stations, hospitals, and schools. In case of an emergency, these teams can be on-site within five minutes. The main force behind this operation consists of specialized police units from the provincial patrol department, with some local cities also establishing their own armed patrol teams.
Each patrol group is equipped with a combination of long-range and short-range weapons, ensuring that officers have immediate access to firearms and ammunition. In addition to weapons, they are also provided with essential tools for demolition, fire suppression, and personal protection. These units are strategically stationed in densely populated areas and extend their coverage to surrounding regions.
To date, over 70,000 personnel have been deployed, with more than 10,000 armed patrol vehicles now in operation. This large-scale initiative reflects the province's commitment to maintaining stability and enhancing its counter-terrorism capabilities.
In addition, as part of a broader effort to improve the response capacity of frontline police, the Hebei Provincial Public Security Department launched a three-month training program starting at the end of April 2014. This program, aligned with the Ministry of Public Security's national strategy, focused on improving the use of weapons and tactical skills among officers, further strengthening the province’s readiness for any potential threats.