I read a police manual
from a friend who joined the force, and i'm sure in there was a thing relating to this, and they advise a slap or pinning and to never ever shove someone unless in a full on baton charge, because it is more provoking and will garner an immediate response of aggression, whereas a slap / hold is used more to shock or temporarily stun someone due to the surprise element of it.

Obviously in a huge crowd situation pinning is unlikely unless the person can be removed and isolated, which could inflame the crowd more than a short sharp shock.

You should sign up to be the crowd in the riot training they do for the Met and regional forces
(Halfy By light alone, Thu 1 Apr 2010, 12:58, Reply)