34 pyramid scheme members detained for assault

Police in east China's Anhui Province have detained 34 members of a pyramid scheme who allegedly assaulted law enforcement officers and policemen, injuring 12 of them, local authorities said Monday.

On Saturday, police in the provincial capital city of Hefei arrested five suspects, who led nearly 300 members of the pyramid selling group to attack the law enforcement officers. The officers were investigating the pyramid scheme at a local residential complex, according to the city's public security department.

The pyramid scheme members blocked the gate of the complex and stopped residents from getting in or out.

Twelve law enforcement officers and policemen were injured during the clash, according to the department.

Police later established order and a special team was set up to look into the case.

Thirty-four scheme members have been detained for alleged affray and obstructing public affairs.

A further investigation into the case is underway.