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Famous Chinese singer detained over drug use

By Qi Xiao (chinadaily.com.cn)
Updated: 2009-05-20 15:43

Man Wenjun, a well-known Chinese pop singer, was detained at a local bar in Beijing early Tuesday morning, the Beijing Times reports Wednesday. 

The Beijing Municipal Public Security Bureau confirmed the arrest, saying Man is suspected of taking drugs. 

Man Wenjun is seen here in this undated file photo. [CFP]

Coco Banana, the bar where Man was arrested, is seen shut down on Tuesday night, May 19, 2009. [sina.com.cn]

Man was reportedly holding a birthday party for his wife at a bar near the Worker's Stadium with his friends, when police suddenly broke into their private room and apprehended all those present. Police say they were tipped off by an informant. 

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Preliminary results show that most of those arrested tested positive for a banned substance, including Man and his wife. The bar, named Coco Banana, has been ordered to shut down Tuesday night, pending further notice. 

"He doesn't even drink much beer," said Song Ke, CEO of Taihe Rye Music, which Man has a contract with. Song was quite surprised to hear the news, saying, "I hope it's just a mistake."

Only a week ago, Man was pictured as an ambassador for a charity project of the Child Welfare League of China on its official website. When asked about whether Man will keep his role after the arrest, the League said they will discuss the matter.