Police investigate protection racket, gun crimes

Police in Beijing are investigating accusations that street traders near a subway station were being forced to pay protection money to alleged gang members, according to the public security department in Changping district.

"We have started an investigation, and if any criminal gangs are involved, we will resolutely crack down on them and publicize the result," an unidentified police officer said on Tuesday.

According to Beijing News, small retailers near Tiantongyuan North subway station were forced to pay the suspects several thousand yuan each month in order to be allowed to do business on the nearby square and adjacent alley - a well-known market for commodities ranging from socks and shoes to fruit and vegetables.