Chinese security forces pictured with giant ‘electrified’ forks

Chinese forces are currently conducting exercises with giant “electric” forklifts that could potentially be used against protesters in Hong Kong.

Members of China’s paramilitary People’s Police were seen exercising at the Shenzhen Bay Sports Centre, across from Hong Kong, using the fearsome eight-foot U-shaped poles.

They also marched and practiced crowd-control tactics, which some interpreted as a threat against pro-democracy protesters.

The demonstrations have been marked by increasing violence; Hong Kong’s airport was closed earlier this week.

Amnesty International has previously advised against using electrical appliances and warned they can cause burns, puncture wounds and blisters.

Chinese police have practiced using the terrifying fork-shaped devices during protests in Hong Kong. (Reuters)

Anti-terrorist police stand guard outside the Mong Kok police station during "Let's take back Hung Hom and Kwa Wan, let's bring peace back to our homeland" demonstration against the extradition bill, Hong Kong, China August 17, 2019. REUTERS/Kim Hong-Ji — Anti-terrorism police stand guard outside a police station in Mong Kok during a protest in Hong Kong on Saturday. (Reuters)

It is believed that the devices that the Chinese soldiers trained with were electrified, but this has not yet been verified.

Amnesty International said: “Police and security forces around the world have developed, sold and used a wide range of direct electrical weapons, including stun guns, shock batons and shock shields.

“The use of such a weapon causes intense pain, both local and general, but does not lead to complete incapacity.”

The release of images of the drills by Chinese state media could exacerbate tensions. More protests are expected this weekend, with up to a million people expected to take part.

Mass action: Protesters gather in Hong Kong on Saturday for a protest called “Safeguard the Future Generation.” (GETTY)

Beijing has already said it can respond to any unrest within ten minutes and has now deployed troops and tanks near the border.

Hong Kong authorities have refused to talk to demonstrators who have been protesting since early June, demanding expanded political rights and the repeal of legislation that could have sent criminal suspects to mainland China.

Hong Kong police officials said on Thursday they were unaware of any plans for Chinese forces to join in the crackdown on demonstrators.

The United States has warned China against military involvement in the matter, adding that it could seriously damage the country’s economy because of Hong Kong’s importance.