A new study from mainland China’s internal security forces offers a glimpse into a future where urban unrest is managed by autonomous machines instead of police in riot gear.
In a scenario laid out by engineering experts from the People’s Armed Police Force (PAP), a crowd – incited by rumours following a military takeover of a large city – gathers in a central square to assault key government installations.
Their protest meets a swift response: roadblocks are suddenly deployed, cutting off their advance. Key instigators in the crowd are swiftly identified and captured.
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Cut off from the internet and unable to broadcast their cause, the demonstrators eventually disperse on their own.
Throughout the entire ordeal, they do not confront a soldier or police officer in person.
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