Two arrested for extorting money from courier clients

TWO people have been arrested on suspicion of impersonating express deliverymen and extorting money from clients, according to Qingpu District People’s Procuratorate.

The situation came to light in April when several people reported to police that two men, wearing uniforms from Deppon Logistics Co, distributed name cards and solicited clients at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Qingpu.

They claimed to provide good services at a reasonable price, but when they delivered goods to the required addresses they asked for extra transportation fees. If these “fees” weren’t paid the men refused to hand over the goods, prosecutors alleged.

The two men were soon caught and admitted that they subcontracted the services to other courier companies and charged commissions ranging from 200 (US$30) to 7,000 yuan from each deal. The two have been arrested for extortion and further investigation is still under way.

Qingpu is home to some of the country’s leading courier companies. This year, the China International Import Expo will be held at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Qingpu.

To ensure a safe and successful expo, Qingpu’s procuratorate has especially set up an investigation unit compromised of three prosecutors who are experts at dealing with fraud, extortion and other disputes related to courier companies.