(Hangzhou, September 30, 2007) – Detained writer and activist, Lu Gengsong (吕耿松), has been formally arrested on suspicion of "inciting subversion of state power." Lu is incarcerated at the Xihu (West Lake) Detention Center in Hangzhou City. The arrest notice was issued by the Hangzhou City Public Security Bureau, dated September 29, 2007, and sent to Lu's wife, Wang Xue E (汪雪娥). Lu's wife refused to sign the notice.

Lu was detained thirty-seven days ago, on August 24, 2007, on suspicion of "illegal possession of state secrets" and "inciting subversion against state power."  The former charge has apparently been dropped. 

CHRD believes that Lu is being persecuted for exercising his freedom of expression and for undertaking activities to defend human rights. This is yet another incident in a growing pattern of the Chinese state using laws such as "illegal possession of state secrets" and "inciting subversion of state power" to suppress freedom of expression and criminalize human rights defenders. 

For more information about Lu's detention, please see:

Lu Gengsong Request for Lawyer Rejected

Pro-democracy Activist Detained for "Inciting Subversion"

Chinese Human Rights Defenders (CHRD ) is a non-political, non-government network of grassroots and international activists promoting human rights protection and empowering grassroots activism in China.  CHRD's objective is to build NGO capacities, monitor rights development, and assist victims of abuse.   CHRD advocates non-violent and rule of law approaches.  CHRD conducts investigation and research, provides information, organizes training, supports a program of small grants, and offers legal assistance.

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