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Chongqing police have detained a 48-year-old man, identified as Li, for allegedly poisoning a pond of ornamental fish at Jialing Park in Jiangbei District. The incident caused outrage after large numbers of dead fish were discovered in the park’s popular viewing pond.
According to a statement released by the Jiangbei District Public Security Bureau on January 13, Li operates a recreational business in the park that competes with another vendor who oversees the ornamental fish pond. Police investigations revealed that Li was dissatisfied with the competitor’s higher profits and sought revenge. On the evening of January 11, at approximately 7:40 p.m., Li poured leftover vegetable pesticide from his home into the pond, killing a significant number of fish.
Police have charged Li with criminal damage, and he is currently in custody as further investigations continue.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation on Chinese social media platforms. Many netizens expressed anger over Li’s actions, particularly as the park is a public space meant for community enjoyment. One comment read: “How petty and selfish can someone be to harm innocent animals just because of competition? He deserves severe punishment.”
Others noted the environmental impact of such behavior. “This isn’t just about the fish. The pesticide could also harm the ecosystem of the pond and the surrounding area. People like this should be held accountable for their actions,” wrote another user.
Some netizens also criticized the lack of supervision in the park, with one remarking: “Why wasn’t this detected earlier? The management should improve security measures to prevent such incidents from happening again.”
While most comments were critical, a few suggested leniency, citing the pressures of fierce competition in small businesses. However, the majority argued that such behavior cannot be justified, regardless of the circumstances.
