Chinese authorities punished internet users for publishing criticism and so-called "rumors" about floods in the Tibet region. People were penalized for stating online that the catastrophe was deliberately caused by humans, a serious accusation against the authorities.
Additionally, other users were sanctioned for inventing alleged rewards related to search operations after the floods. This false information reportedly circulated on Chinese social media, leading to authorities' intervention.
The punishments are part of a broader action to control information on social media during crisis situations. China has a history of pursuing those it considers to be spreading disinformation or criticism of the government, especially during emergency moments.
The floods in Tibet reportedly caused significant damage, and authorities are now seeking to control the narrative around the disaster, preventing theories that question the management of the situation or that invent details about rescue operations from spreading.
