some newer models require a button to be pressed for them to start the AP, but still leaves them vulnerable to attacks with a long stick and doesn't draw any attention while hundreds of cameras suddenly stop working, making the city government think they're unreliable.
It's important to not look suspicious. You may also need to start lifting weights right now. That long stick is going to be heavy.
put on a vest and it looks like you're just doing maintenance.
The article suggests that some of the cameras are smashed and left in highly visible places to "send a message".
a good 'message' would be convincing the government and cities that these are useless and that they don't work as well as create more administrative costs than just hiring more police officers or raising education levels.