The relatively well-trained Shanghai police come in different forms. Everyday officers wear light and dark blue uniforms and navy blue peaked caps and man the local police stations or patrol the streets in white Volkswagens. Traffic police wear similar uniforms with white metal helmets, ride motorbikes, and bravely try to instil some sort of order on Shanghai’s chaotic streets. Detectives usually don black suits and turn up at crime scenes or interrogation rooms. Except for detectives, the police rarely carry guns, making do with handcuffs, batons and pepper-spray. Very few police in Shanghai speak English, which sometimes translates to gruff and aggressive behaviour with foreigners. It’s impossible not to notice the marshals at pedestrian crossings. Although not technically policemen, they batter the eardrums of anyone trying to cross the street on a red light. Whistling is not the only punishment on hand; if caught, jaywalkers can be issued on-the-spot fines of up to ¥50.­­­­