Liu Hu

Liu Hu is a 50-year-old veteran Chinese investigative journalist. He is newsworthy due to his recent detention in Sichuan province, along with colleague Wu Yingjiao, following the publication of an article critical of local officials and alleging corruption by a senior Communist Party official. Police detained them on suspicion of "making false accusations" and conducting "illegal business operations." This detention has sparked concern among rights groups and activists, who view it as a sign of shrinking space for independent voices and increased suppression of journalists in China. Liu Hu was previously arrested in 2013 on suspicion of defamation. The two journalists have since been released on bail pending trial. The case highlights the risks faced by journalists investigating corruption in China and the government's sensitivity to criticism.