Smile, shoppers ... you're on candid camera

SHANGHAI: The planned installation of surveillance cameras in stores throughout Shanghai has sparked a debate on how to strengthen public security, while also protecting personal privacy.

The Shanghai municipal bureau of quality and technical supervision has mandated that surveillance cameras be installed in all supermarkets and convenience stores in the city by Oct 1.

"The number of robberies reported by police has been steadily rising in recent years," a bureau official surnamed Ni said.