A newly-established riot police department dubbed the "Special Police Force (SPF)" has taken shape in 36 large cities across the country, according to a two-day national conference.

In 2005, the 36 large cities began setting up their own SPFs following a resolution made by the Ministry of Public Security.

SPF is responsible for dealing with terrorist attacks, riots, crowd control as well as guarding senior officials and patrolling important events.

Over the past year, SPF officers have participated in training exercises. In some cities, SPF departments have been involved in safeguarding international conferences such as the Summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

SPF departments in Nanjing, Zhengzhou, Wuhan and Shenzhen cities are now equipped with helicopters.

In Beijing, the host of the 2008 Olympic Games, the municipal government has allocated 500 million yuan (about 62.5 million U.S. dollars) for the SPF.

Source: Xinhua