Chinese police personnel block a demonstration in Yunnan province. Photo / Reuters
Chinese police opened fire during a clash over land use between villagers and employees of China's number two gold miner, killing two and wounding more than 20, a Hong Kong newspaper said.
Beijing, terrified of social unrest before the Olympics in August, has cracked down on protests over the arbitrary use of land by powerful local interests.
Ming Pao cited unidentified sources as saying riot police in the province of Yunnan were sent in on Sunday after almost 100 villagers clashed with Zijin Mining workers.
The newspaper said the villagers were angry with offers of compensation and relocations when Zijin was trying to buy up small mines in the area.
- REUTERS