Object
Light Pen (ID Verification Pen)
A slim, handheld verification pen that emits a focused scan of pale light from its tapered tip. Roughly the length of a writing instrument, its matte casing bears service wear and a simple clip; officers sweep it over transparent ID cards as the pen pulses briefly to confirm readings. It feels utilitarian in the hand and moves through the plaza with brisk, procedural efficiency as IDs are checked and suspects are processed.
1 appearances
Purpose
To read and verify identification cards quickly in-field during security checks and mass roundups.
Significance
Functions as the practical instrument enabling the plaza roundup: it enforces the checkpoint process and by extension state control. Its presence helps produce the tangible indignity suffered by detainees and sharpens the political and moral conflict surrounding the security sweep.
Appearances in the Narrative
When this object appears and how it's used