To meet the demand of global and nationwide anti-terrorism, Shanghai Special Police Corps was launched on Saturday in response to a Ministry of Public Security order of setting up special police corps in 36 cities across the country.

The new force belonging to Shanghai Public Security Bureau is responsible for fighting against city terrorism, which includes handling purposed attacks, explosions and biological attacks.

Other violent criminal cases, such as kidnapping and hijacking, are also within the force's duties.

The armed corps not only practised short-distance fighting skills and comprehensive grappling technique at the unveiling ceremony, but also performed bank robbery and hijack scenario drill.

Beijing founded its Special Police Corps a week ago, and Chongqing established its force last month.

(China Daily December 26, 2005)