A photo taken on September 1 shows armed police forces in Beijing lining up for a mobilization ceremony that marks the start of their deployment in the city to ensure security during the National Day celebrations on October 1 that mark the 60th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. [Xinhua]

It is not clear whether the PAPF will deploy its anti-terror special unit, Snow Leopard Commando Unit (SLCU), for the security missions on the National Day. About 400 SLCU members were called to protect the first Olympic Games held in China last summer.

Under the Law on the People's Armed Police Force, the PAPF troops could "take necessary measures" to dispel large assemblies of people that compromise social order and the security of facilities the PAPF protects.

PAPF personnel can interrogate suspicious persons and check their identification documents, belongings and vehicles when they assist the police in traffic control.

To ensure safety of the Beijing's Capital International Airport, armed policemen have been sent to the airport's three terminals since the end of last month to help the police patrol against violence and terrorist attacks.

The armed police troops will intensify interrogation of suspicious passengers and garrison the airport, one of the most important security targets for the National Day celebrations, until Oct. 8.