Six arrested in Xiamen over alleged use of toxic pesticide in restaurant disinfection

(ECNS) -- Six people have been arrested in Xiamen, Fujian Province, after a company was found to have allegedly used a toxic pesticide to disinfect a number of well-known chain restaurants, local authorities said on Sunday.

According to a statement released by a joint investigation team, those arrested include the company's legal representative, surnamed Zhuang, a shareholder surnamed Zeng, and a business training supervisor surnamed Li.

The statement said the actions of Xiamen Lvlinsen Environmental Technology Co., Ltd. are suspected of violating laws and regulations, describing the nature of the case as extremely serious.

The case currently remains under further investigation.

According to earlier reports, the company allegedly used dichlorvos, a toxic agricultural pesticide, while providing routine disinfection services to dozens of well-known restaurant chains, including Green Tea, Xianqi Banbudian, Chi Nai, Fengyuanjia and Yisushi.

Dichlorvos is not permitted for use in catering venues because of its potential health risks. Exposure to the chemical can cause serious health effects and, in severe cases, may be life-threatening.