The Ministry of Public Security in China has decided criminal suspects will no longer be paraded and shamed in front of the press and public.

The decision to stop exposing suspects to scorn came after complaints from the public over the publication of photos showing alleged sex workers, scantily clad and in handcuffs in Dongguan, southern Guangdong Province

A similar incident had also occurred in Wuhan where local police posted the names and ages of alleged sex workers on walls.

When asked about their action, police explained that their goal was not to humiliate the suspects, but to warn the general public against indulging in crime.

A Ministry notice has now been handed to police officials requesting they change their approach to law and regulation enforcement and correct their "rude methods."

The notice says police forces will now be required to "behave reasonably and in a civilised manner, and fully respect and safeguard the human rights of people who break the law whilst ensuring openness in law enforcement."