Anti-terrorist forces are in action as Beijing has stepped up security ahead of the 60th National Day celebration. The Blue Sword Commando Unit has begun patrolling the city's main thoroughfare of Chang'an Avenue.

On Wednesday, the Unit drew much attention from passersby at Beijing's Wangfujing shopping area.

The highly-trained special police squad was dubbed the protector of last year's Beijing Olympics for its role in counter-terrorism and riot control. Now they are in action again.

Miao Yanjun, Deputy Unit Leader of Beijing Special Weapons & Tactics Unit, said, "We have three policemen for each patrol car. Each of them is equipped with two rifles and a pistol. They can deal with various emergency situations."

As for the squad's canine partners, the officers are reminding people not to get close or touch the dogs without permission.