Authorities of Heihe border city in Heilongjiang Province launched on Monday a "people's war" against the latest COVID-19 flareup with rewards of 100,000 yuan to local residents who offer important clues for tracing the origins of the virus.
Tracing the sources of the virus and its transmission chain is the top priority and a people's war on epidemic prevention and control is needed, the city's government said in an announcement released on Sunday.
"It is hoped that the general public could actively cooperate with the tracing of the virus and provide clues to the probe," the announcement said.
To those who provide valuable clues to help find the origins, the government will provide a reward of 100,000 yuan.
However, to those who intentionally conceal or refuse to provide true information that affects the probe, the government will impose severe punishment in accordance with relevant laws and regulations. Those who have committed slight violations and reported themselves actively could be pardoned.
The government reminded local residents to immediately report to the police if they discover any clues related to crimes like animal smuggling, illegal hunting and cross-border fishing.
