China factory construction halted amid violent protests

 

 

Chinese officials have halted the construction of a copper alloy plant in Shifang city, Sichuan province, following protests by local residents.

Local police said large crowds of residents gathered on Sunday and Monday to protest against the plant on environmental grounds.
Both police and residents were injured in the clashes as bottles were thrown and cars damaged, they said.
Officials said they would now consult residents on the project.
The Shifang city government, on its official Sina Weibo account, said that 13 protesters were injured on Monday and sent to hospital after police dispersed the crowd with tear gas.
"Some people gathered outside the government building and began to throw bricks and water bottles at the building, government workers and police officers from 13:30, resulting in some injuries to police officers," the city government said.
The Shifang police also issued a warning to protesters.
"Anyone who has incited, planned or organised illegal gatherings, protest marches or demonstrations or those who have engaged in smashing and looting... will be punished severely," it said in a statement on Tuesday.
"Anyone using the internet, mobile text messages and other methods to incite, plan or organise illegal gatherings, protest marches or demonstrations must immediately stop their illegal activities," it added.