China issues rules to regulate auxiliary police

China's cabinet on Tuesday made public a document that aims to tighten management of the country's auxiliary police force.

"Opinions on Regulating the Management of Auxiliary Police" specified that auxiliary police are employed with formal contracts by public security organs and governments at or above the county level, and local authorities should systematically manage a team of auxiliary police of a "reasonable size" in line with local social and economic development.

Targeting various issues such as the team's legal status and responsibilities, slack management and even abuse of power, the document was authored by the ministries of public security, civil affairs, finance and human resources and social security.

According to the document, people with a bad credit rating or record of criminal or administrative penalties should not be employed as auxiliary police.

It stressed that punishment must be meted out to personnel who have violated laws and regulations, and those committing severe violations should be dismissed and criminal charges pressed.

Meanwhile, the document urged police to improve auxiliary police training and establish an evaluation system that influences salary increases and promotion opportunities.

"Outstanding individuals should be honored in accordance with state stipulations," it said, adding that police organs should see to that auxiliary police enjoy full social insurance, labor protection and salary benefits.

China's auxiliary police help the police ensure public security, investigate crimes, carry out administrative management and serve the people. Official figures show that, on average, 100 auxiliary police staff die in the line of duty and some 2,000 are injured every year.