A recent crackdown on organized crime in China is sparking fears among lawyers regarding potential wrongful convictions. Zeng Jianbin, a real estate developer in Sichuan province, received a 20-year prison sentence as a purported “gang leader” in 2023, convicted on multiple charges. The severity of his sentencing stemmed from the perceived organized nature of his alleged crimes. However, details surrounding his case and the broader crackdown are raising concerns about due process. Lawyers worry that the broad scope of the campaign and pressure to demonstrate results could lead to unfair trials and unjust punishments. This case highlights the risks of hastily defined “gang” activity and its potential impact on individual liberties within China’s legal system. The ongoing appeal of Zeng Jianbin’s conviction is being closely watched as a potential indicator of the crackdown’s fairness.

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