Temple in China launches first anti-terror team

The famous Lingyin Temple in Hangzhou, the capital of the East China's Zhejiang Province, has organized an anti-terror contingent, the first among Chinese temples, to ward off possible terrorism attacks.

The 45-member team was founded on Tuesday, consisting of 20 monks and all of its 25 security guards. The monks prayed to Buddha during the day and trained at night. Only those aged 20 to 40 with an agile body and quick reactions can join the team. Some members are retired military veterans.

The launch of the team came after the terrorist attack at Kunming Railway Station, the capital of southwest China's Yunnan Province, on the evening of March 1. It caused 29 deaths and another 143 were injured.

The temple regularly receives 10,000 tourists every day. It was deemed necessary to set up such a team to prepare for possible terrorist attacks.

Besides the team, the temple also stockpiled shields and batons at several locations, and its security guards will carry batons and pepper spray at all times.

The Lingyin Temple, built in 326 AD, enjoys a 1,700-year history.. It is set amid beautiful scenery near two mountains.