Arrested on Charges of Spreading False Information
Regarding a live broadcast that staged a kidnapping and organ trafficking, police in Guizhou, China, stated that the incident was fabricated and manipulated for the sake of content views.
On November 6, multiple Chinese media outlets, including China National Radio, reported that "four influencers who conducted sensational live broadcasts on social networking services (SNS) have been arrested by Chinese public security (police)," adding that they are accused of spreading false information.
The released video showed two men in a car holding a woman hostage and threatening to send her to northern Myanmar for the purpose of organ trafficking. Viewers who watched the video reportedly felt fear, and numerous reports were filed with the authorities.
However, investigations revealed that there was no conflict among the four influencers involved. They exploited the provocative subject of "organ trafficking" to stage a fake scenario in order to increase their view count. China National Radio pointed out, "They incited public fear and seriously disrupted social order with their fabricated and manipulated video."
The individuals are expected to face administrative penalties under relevant laws. According to China's Public Security Administration Punishments Law, those who spread false information or rumors about emergencies, epidemics, or police matters may be detained for 5 to 10 days or fined up to 500 yuan (approximately 100,000 won).
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