Beijing [China], April 3 : A wave of protests and clashes between residents and police has erupted across multiple regions in China, reflecting growing public frustration over environmental concerns, land disputes, and governance issues, according to a report by The Epoch Times (TET).
The unrest has also prompted authorities to step up security measures, particularly in the capital, Beijing.
As cited by TET, analysts link the heightened security presence in Beijing to concerns over political stability and the safety of top leadership. Visuals circulating online recently showed heavy police deployment along Chang'an Avenue, a key thoroughfare passing through politically sensitive landmarks.
In the central city of Wuhan, protests have intensified over a battery manufacturing project opposed by residents since February due to environmental concerns. On March 8, thousands of homeowners staged demonstrations that were dispersed by police, with several detentions reported. Protesters also surrounded a deputy mayor's vehicle, demanding the release of those detained. Despite earlier assurances to halt the project, construction has reportedly continued.
Tensions flared again on the night of March 28, when hundreds of residents returned to the streets demanding cancellation of the project. Police moved in late at night to disperse the gathering, detaining multiple individuals, while maintaining a strong presence in the area the following day.
In southern Guangdong Province, protests have also been ongoing in Shuikou over plans to construct a crematorium near residential zones and a school. According to TET, around 3,000 people participated in demonstrations on March 25. Witnesses reported injuries and detentions, while authorities increased surveillance, restricted movement, and conducted identity checks in surrounding areas.
Residents have raised concerns about the crematorium's proximity to a primary school and a water source. Earlier demonstrations between March 17 and 19 had already escalated into violent confrontations with riot police.
Amid the unrest, authorities have introduced stricter security regulations. According to TET, Beijing has announced sweeping new controls on drone usage, placing the city under regulated airspace. As per state media reports, all drone flights will require prior approval, while manufacturing, transporting, or storing drones without authorisation will be prohibited.
The new rules, effective May 1, also mandate registration of all drones by April 30. Authorities have cited "low-altitude security challenges" as the reason for the measures.
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