(Minghui.org) Many guards in China use a custom-made pepper spray meant expressly for detained Falun Gong practitioners. The spray's special mix of chemicals result in deep burns and blisters to the skin, eyes, and mouth.

Since her illegal arrest on June 10, 2013, Falun Gong practitioner Ms. Zhang Xiaojie has been pepper-sprayed multiple times at the Qinhuangdao City Detention Center in Hebei Province. This took place most recently on May 19.

When her lawyer protested against the abuse, Director Tian of the detention center claimed that pepper spraying detainees was legal, and not considered a form of torture.

The pepper spray used by the police

Protest Falls on Deaf Ears

On May 8, 2014, guard Ma Mei pepper sprayed Ms. Zhang several times. About a week later, because Ms. Zhang did not greet Ma after she returned from court, Ma pepper sprayed Ms. Zhang again.

Days later, Ms. Zhang's attorney talked to Director Tian (first name unknown, female, badge number 95457), who was on duty that day. The attorney told Tian about Ma's use of pepper spray on Ms. Zhang, and explained how such torture was illegal. Tian ignored the complaint and replied, “I don't consider this an illegal act, and it's certainly not torture.”

Background of Ms. Zhang's Arrest and Detention

Ms. Zhang, a teacher at the Qinghuangdao Senior Vestibule School, was unlawfully arrested on June 10, 2013. She was locked up and tortured at the First Detention Center of Qinhuangdao City. For more details, please read the Minghui report Ms. Zhang Xiaojie's Trial Re-scheduled for the Third Time.

In December 2013, guard Hu Wei attacked Ms. Zhang with pepper spray and shackled her with heavy irons. For more details, please read Teacher Handcuffed and Shackled for Two Weeks for Answering Survey Truthfully.

The detention center directors condone the torture of Falun Gong practitioners, which has caused the deaths, injuries, and disabilities to many practitioners.

The authorities have committed the crime of negligence as stated in article 397 of the Criminal Law. Guards, such as Ma Mei, have beaten, physically abused, and insulted the detained practitioners. Moreover, these guards and other officials have violated Article 248 of the Criminal Law by beating and using violence against imprisoned practitioners.