Security beefed up for buses in Shanghai

Shanghai police is beefing up security at bus stops and public buses after a series of bus fires across the country.

Plainclothes police will be deployed to ensure operation safety.

Armed police and sniffer dogs will also be stationed at main public bus depots to watch out for luggage with banned items, especially inflammable material or explosive objects. The plainclothes officers will randomly get on to buses and carry out inspections, said Song Youguo, vice captain of Shanghai Metro and Public Bus Security Team.

Security is being beefed up after the recent spate of arson attacks on buses in Hangzhou, Changsha and Guangzhou.

Bus companies were told to ensure the working condition of safety facilities like emergency hammers, fire extinguishers and surveillance cameras. Drivers and conductors have been told about their responsibilities to keep a check on suspicious luggage brought on the bus by passengers.

Security checks have also been boosted at the arrival areas of 10 long distance bus terminals.