China’s police chief orders tighter counterterrorism net across nation in wake of Paris attacks

China’s police chief on Sunday ordered the country’s counterterrorism agencies to beef up intelligence gathering and analysis, as well as reinforce patrols at key venues, after Friday’s terror attacks in Paris.

Public Security Minister Guo Shengkun, who also heads the national leading group on counterterrorism, told a video conference held jointly by the group and the ministry that all departments should boost their preparedness and early-warning systems against terrorism to safeguard public security and social stability, Xinhua reported, citing a ministry statement.

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Among those taking part in the video conference were Wang Ning, commander of the paramilitary  People’s Armed Police, as well as the heads of the previously little-known counterterrorism leading group under the  Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, according to the ministry’s statement.

Xinhua said the participants were briefed of the attacks in Paris.

Guo urged officials to “intensively strengthen analysis and research on anti-terrorism intelligence” to ensure “precise strikes and enhanced capacity in early-warning, precautionary and prevention measures, and to make efforts to smash violent terrorism before it occurs”. He also pledged “high pressure and deterrence against violent terrorism” and to push ahead with the counterterrorism campaign.

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Controls on guns, dangerous and explosive materials, as well as on goods delivery would be firmly implemented, Guo said, adding that efforts be taken to prevent other kinds of major violence and extreme acts by individuals.