Without warning, local authorities dispatched hundreds to demolish villagers’ homes in Wenshan County, Yunnan Province on October 27. Police beat villagers who resisted. More than ten villagers were injured and admitted to the hospital, while approximately 20 were held in a detention center.
Most of the injured are elderly people between 70 and 80 years old. Some had arms and legs broken, while others sustained broken ribs and some needed surgery. Villagers needing surgery were expected to pay in advance, otherwise no operation would ensue.
According to some eyewitness accounts, the government sent 400 to 500 people to forcibly demolish villagers’ homes. It did so without legal basis, without notice, or by any agreement with the villagers.
