Chinese authorities are using an extensive network of security cameras, watchtowers and other infrastructure to monitor activity near the North Korean border, new photos and satellite imagery of the sensitive region show, as Beijing has taken extra steps to secure the sensitive area in recent years.

Experts told NK News that the increased security, particularly along the eastern border, makes it harder for DPRK escapees to avoid capture and for organizations working on North Korea issues to operate in the area.

“The difference since the pandemic has been the active examination of IDs at checkpoints — true all over China