China anti-terror drill: officer leaps onto axe attacker

As France contends with riots, clashes with security forces and the looting of shops, footage circulating online from an anti-terror drill in China shows an unusual method for subduing a mock attacker in the middle of a crowded area.

The video shows a man holding an axe and running toward a crowd, as part of a scenario simulating an attack. A police officer sprints toward him, wraps his legs around the upper half of the man's body, and brings him to the ground in a rapid movement that resembles an acrobatic wrestling maneuver.

The demonstration drew widespread reaction online. Some viewers were impressed by the speed and the unusual technique, while others questioned whether the method would work in a real encounter with a resisting attacker. Commenters noted that in a coordinated drill it is easier to execute such a move, when the participant playing the attacker is cooperating.

China has previously unveiled unconventional policing tools, including the RT-G spherical robot, which looks like a giant wheel and rolls alongside officers. The robot is equipped with cameras and lights, can chase suspects, and is capable of carrying crowd-dispersal equipment, including tear gas. The technology is intended to assist security forces in pursuing suspects and handling dangerous incidents.

Meanwhile, France has been dealing in recent days with widespread unrest. According to reports in the international press, protests over the cost of living and the state of public services have deteriorated into clashes, arson and looting in several cities.

In Paris, clashes with police have been recorded and shops have been ransacked, as security forces worked to disperse violent gatherings and arrest suspects.