Public debate over fireworks is taking over China's online chatter, ignited by Monday's tragic blaze in central Beijing which left one of China's most treasured modern buildings in cinders, killing one fireman and injuring several bystanders.
Police on Thursday announced they had detained 12 people, including four employees of China's state television station CCTV. They are being held as suspects for setting off large firecrackers next to the newly constructed Mandarin Oriental Hotel, a flagship property of the hotel chain.
The blaze happened on Monday night in the final hours of the Lunar New Year festivities. Traditionally, the Chinese celebrate by lighting up the skies with fireworks. But Beijing officials are accusing CCTV employees of setting off heavy-duty fireworks, which are banned in densely populated areas such as central Beijing, CRI stated. 
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All About Beijing • Mandarin Oriental International Ltd.
