Local police in Maoming, Guangdong Province announced Wednesday that they have detained 24 people, among whom five were arrested with the prosecutor's approval. They allegedly conducted illegal acts during a mass incident against the proposed construction of a paraxylene (PX) project.

Another 36 people received administrative punishments. Two of them were sent to a drug rehabilitation center.

Protesters took to the streets for several days since March 30, opposing the project in fear for pollution. The protest launched with peaceful gatherings and parades at first.

Local police stated that some people started to damage public facilities and burn cars late at night, which harmed social order.

Maoming government responded to public request on March 31 that they would not go ahead with the project if the majority of local residents opposed it.