Hangzhou police detain creator of water contamination rumor

Authorities denied a rumor that blamed fecal water contamination for foul odor in tap water in part of Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, and detained the rumor's creator.

An investigation confirmed that the unusual odor in tap water was caused by sulfur compounds released by natural algal degradation under specific climate conditions. The water quality was fully restored after the local water treatment plant switched water sources.

The Ministry of Public Security's cybersecurity bureau dismissed the widespread online rumor, disseminated via a fabricated police notice, claiming the odor was caused by "sewage or fecal water contamination" from 13 sewage discharge pipes connected to the water supply system in the urban area.

The misinformation was traced to a man surnamed Shao, who created and spread the fake notice online "to grasp people's attention and attract eyeballs". The post attracted widespread attention, leading to unnecessary public concern.

Local police have detained Shao on criminal charges related to spreading false information. Authorities reiterated that the internet is not a lawless space, urging everyone to be responsible for their online statements and warning that spreading rumors may bring legal consequences.