Xinjiang investigates vandalism of prominent desert landmark

Authorities in Hami, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, have launched an investigation after a prominent desert landmark bearing the phrase "Serve the People" was vandalized by off-road vehicles, sparking widespread public concern.

According to a statement released by the Yizhou district forestry and grassland bureau on Tuesday, the incident occurred in an area classified as "other grassland" under the national land survey.

The statement added that two suspects, surnamed Zhang and Li, have been interrogated multiple times. In 2024, they drove an off-road vehicle and performed drifting maneuvers at the site, severely damaging the grassland vegetation.

Law enforcement officers, experts, and a third-party surveying company have conducted field inspections. The evidence collection is finished, and the case is now under final review. Once completed, the results will be made public.