Sichuan Journalists Released on Bail After Corruption Allegations
Two investigative journalists detained in Sichuan province after publishing allegations against a local Communist Party official have been released on bail, drawing renewed attention to media oversight and legal risks faced by reporters in China.
Liu Hu, 50, a veteran investigative journalist, and Wu Yingjiao, 34, were taken into custody earlier this month by police in Chengdu’s Jinjiang district. Authorities said they were suspected of making false accusations and engaging in illegal business operations. The pair had published an article alleging misconduct by Pu Fayou, party secretary of Pujiang county, which falls under Chengdu’s administration.
The article, which has since been removed from online platforms, cited a source claiming that the county official abused his authority in dealings affecting private enterprises. It also suggested that other local officials were involved in corrupt practices. Shortly after publication, the journalists were detained, prompting concern among media observers and rights advocates.
Police confirmed the detention in a notice issued on February 2. While details of the ongoing investigation remain limited, the release on bail indicates that the case is still under review and that formal charges, if any, have not yet been finalised.
Liu Hu is known for his past investigative reporting on official misconduct. This is not the first time he has faced legal scrutiny in connection with his work. In 2013, he was detained under similar accusations and held for nearly a year before being acquitted. That earlier case drew widespread attention within journalistic circles and raised questions about the boundaries of investigative reporting in sensitive cases involving public officials.
The recent incident has again sparked debate over the space available for investigative journalism and public expression. While Chinese authorities have repeatedly emphasised the importance of combating corruption, media coverage of alleged misconduct by officials can intersect with strict regulations governing online publication and business licensing.
Legal experts note that charges such as making false accusations or conducting illegal business operations are sometimes applied in disputes involving published allegations. The outcome of the Sichuan case may depend on whether investigators determine that the journalists acted in accordance with professional standards and whether the information they cited can be substantiated.
The release on bail allows both journalists to return home while the investigation proceeds. Observers say the case will likely be closely watched as it unfolds, given its implications for accountability reporting and the evolving regulatory environment surrounding media activities in China.
