Armed Police in Tiananmen

We went to check out Tiananmen Square today. It was very crowded (and overrated, we decided). Besides walk around we tried to take some pictures of some of the People's Armed Police guards, which they refused to let us take.  However, near where these guards were standing at attention there was a large group of guards hanging around, smoking and joking, with their uniforms not properly worn.  Some were playing pool or basketball, and all were in plain view of the crowds.  This seems odd to me that they would be so concerned with presenting a professional image to the public at the gates while right inside there is an image-wrecking scene.  One way or the other would be helpful. Another suggestion: issue those boys some sunglasses.