China cracks down on unruly behaviour of online sports fans
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The Chinese Table Tennis Association says the disruptive behaviour of online “fan circles” has seriously impacted the team’s training and competitions.
PHOTO: EPA-EFE
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BEIJING - Since the Paris Olympics, Chinese authorities have stepped up efforts to address unruly behaviour in online fan communities, working with various agencies to crack down on illegal activities.
On Aug 17, the Chinese Table Tennis Association released a statement expressing strong support for the government’s actions and denouncing any unlawful conduct.
The move comes after the women’s table tennis final on Aug 3, when some derogatory comments were posted online.
In one instance, a user posted defamatory remarks against athletes and coaches in the early hours of Aug 4, causing significant public outcry.
Beijing police quickly intervened, arresting a 29-year-old woman, identified by her surname He, on Aug 6. She confessed to making the offensive posts. The case remains under investigation.
In a related announcement on Aug 15, the Ministry of Public Security outlined three other cases involving illegal behaviour within sports fan circles and emphasised that the internet is not a lawless zone. It urged users to refrain from spreading misinformation or engaging in personal attacks online.
The Chinese Table Tennis Association expressed concerns over the disruptive behaviour of online “fan circles”, which it says has seriously impacted the team’s training and competitions. This has negatively affected the lives of athletes, coaches and staff, both professionally and personally, while also causing significant social harm.
In response to online or public defamation, insults or malicious attacks against the team or its members, the association pledged to gather evidence and pursue legal action against any individuals or organisations involved.
The Chinese table tennis team expressed gratitude for the support it has received and called for collective efforts to create a cleaner and more positive online environment.
The Chinese Table Tennis Association also reaffirmed its commitment to the sport’s continued healthy development, promoting a new image of modern Chinese sportsmanship and contributing to the nation’s goal of becoming a global sports powerhouse, the statement said. CHINA DAILY/ ASIA NEWS NETWORK
