Photo: VCG

A netizen in Hangzhou has been detained after fabricating and spreading a rumor online claiming that sewage pipe had been connected to the city’s tap water system, according to a statement released by Ministry of Public Security’s cybersecurity department on Tuesday. 

Authorities confirmed that the individual, identified as surnamed Shao, deliberately posted the fake “police notification” to attract attention, causing widespread public concern and misinformation.

Recently, certain areas of Renhe and Liangzhu neighborhoods in Yuhang district of Hangzhou, experienced an unusual odor in the tap water. Preliminary investigations identified the cause as sulfur ether compounds produced by the anaerobic degradation of algae under specific natural climatic conditions. 

Upon confirming the findings through sample analysis, local authorities activated the emergency response plan for sudden water supply incidents, switched the water source, and effectively brought the water quality under control. The water leaving the treatment plant remains safe.

Following the incident, a “police notification” circulated online, claiming that “13 locations in the main urban area have connected water pipelines to the sewage system.” This disinformation triggered widespread public attention, discussion, and misunderstanding, according to the statement. 

The investigation shows that Shao fabricated and posted the false “police notification” online in order to gain attention and attract clicks, resulting in the widespread dissemination of the rumor. Shao has since been detained by the local public security authorities in accordance with the law, the statement said.