On June 29, the Cybersecurity Bureau of China, together with the Cybersecurity Division of the Guangdong Provincial Public Security Department and police in Heyuan City, announced that they had successfully dismantled a criminal organization that allegedly exploited online public opinion to extort money from numerous figures and businesses in the Chinese entertainment industry.
According to People’s Daily, the operation involved more than 100 police officers from eight provinces and two cities. Authorities arrested 12 suspects living in different regions across China. Investigators identified a man surnamed Li as the alleged ringleader.
Police said Li established an MCN (multi-channel network) company registered as a cultural media business. The company reportedly operated multiple WeChat and Weibo accounts with a combined following exceeding 10 million users.
The Cybersecurity Bureau stated that several well-known actors, film productions, television programs, and movie distribution companies were allegedly targeted by the group. A number of celebrities, management agencies, and production companies had previously filed lawsuits against Li’s organization, accusing it of damaging their reputations and business interests.
Following multiple complaints, investigators launched a special task force, conducted an extensive investigation, and eventually arrested the suspects. During questioning, authorities said Li and the other individuals admitted to participating in the alleged criminal activities. The investigation remains ongoing, and officials indicated that additional inquiries are still underway.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of the celebrities, production companies, or distributors involved as alleged victims. However, Chinese netizens have speculated that several entertainment bloggers known for repeatedly publishing negative content about actress Dilraba Dilmurat and criticizing projects featuring the Xinjiang-born star are among the 12 suspects arrested in the operation.
Sources: kenh14
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