InsideJapan News Network

Two Japanese firms have developed a prototype robot which could be used to apprehend criminals.

With a top speed of six miles per hour, the T-34 can be controlled via a mobile phone and catches suspects by trapping them in a net.

A statement from the security firm Alacom Co and the robot developers Tmsuk Co said: "Security sensors often set off false alarms but examining the location with the robot will lead to more efficient operations."

The robot moves around on wheels and has sensors to detect intruders.

Japan is renowned for its pioneering development of robot technology.

In November last year, it was reported that a robot would be playing a starring role in a play which premiered at Osaka University.

Hataraku Watashi (I, Worker) was set in the near future and playwright Oriza Hirata said he wanted to raise important questions about the relationship between humans and technology.