Two detained after illegal dragon boat race held

Two farmers were detained by local police for organizing dragon boat races without the proper permits on a river in Ruian, Zhejiang province.

The incident occurred on Friday and Saturday when Huang and Li, both residents of Tangxia town, organized the traditional activity without approval. During the event on Friday, the dragon boat capsized. All passengers fell into the water, but no casualties were reported.

In response, local authorities punished Huang and Li with administrative detention of nine and seven days, respectively. The case is still under further investigation.

This year's Dragon Boat Festival will fall on June 22.

This incident happened after an announcement released by the Ruian city government in April banning privately organized dragon boat races without permits, citing disorganized activities, low cultural quality and safety concerns.

The ban will remain in effect until 2023, and individuals and organizations are prohibited from organizing any dragon boat races without official approval or license. Violators will face administrative and criminal liabilities.

According to a report by China News Service in 2014, dragon boat races have led to conflicts and violence in the region since the late Qing dynasty (1644-1911).

In 2008, disputes between villagers due to the activity triggered a massive fight, where water bottles and paddles were thrown. The government, after extensive collection of public opinion, banned traditional dragon boat races due to issues such as superstition and disorganized activities.

The local government supports organized dragon boat races under strict limitations and regulations, such as specified times, designated areas and limited number of teams. The authorities have also improved race infrastructure and encouraged associations and clubs to promote the sport.

The Ruian government will hold its ninth edition of the dragon boat race on June 30 at the local venue, using designated boats.