In Sapienza, what exactly are the bodyguards (men in suits) doing there?

What exactly are they guarding? It doesn't seem like they're guarding the Ether Lab because they seem to be positioned all around the exterior of the map. I wouldn't say that they're like the uniformed police of the city, because they'd have other uniforms and be called something law enforcement-ish.

If anyone could shed some light on this, I'd be happy. Thanks!