China has banned schools from charging fees for hiring guards and installing security systems to protect students from violence, says an AP report.

A notice posted on the National Development and Reform Commission's website said schools should not charge for enhanced security and should refund such fees to parents if they've already been charged.

 

Five assaults against schoolchildren in the last two months across China have killed 17 and hurt more than 50, prompting tighter security at schools. Some have installed video surveillance systems and intruder alarms. In the southwestern city of Chongqing, police were told they could shoot to kill to stop assaults on students, the report says.