(Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, southern China — June 22, 2026) A case involving the distribution of Christian books and religious materials in Guangzhou has seen renewed police activity, even after several defendants were released on bail and prosecutors previously declined to pursue charges due to insufficient evidence.
The case dates back to April, when three Christians were taken into custody in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, on suspicion of “illegal business operations” tied to the distribution of religious materials.
From mid-April through early June 2026, authorities reviewed the case. Defense attorneys and witnesses argued the materials were distributed for internal use only and that no profit motive existed.
Authorities ultimately declined to proceed, citing insufficient evidence, and the three individuals were released on bail pending trial.
Last week, a woman identified as Meiling was arrested in connection with this case and detained by Guangzhou police, as ChinaAid News previously reported.
According to an informed source who spoke on condition of anonymity, one individual who had recently returned to Guangzhou was summoned for questioning on June 17, marking their first known interrogation in the case.
The same source said that one of the three individuals previously granted bail was again summoned for additional questioning late last week, indicating continued investigative activity.
Authorities are also reportedly continuing to seek additional individuals linked to the case and have issued online wanted notices as part of the ongoing investigation.
While some local officials were previously described by sources as not actively pushing the case forward, the investigation has continued under reported pressure from higher-level public security or state security authorities. Those claims could not be independently verified.
The case reflects a broader pattern in China in which “illegal business operations” charges have been used in cases involving house churches operating outside the state-sanctioned Three-Self Patriotic Church system.
Religious materials such as Sunday school curriculum, theological texts, and apologetics resources are sometimes classified as “illegal publications” when printed or distributed without official approval, including when no profit is involved, according to prior reporting and advocacy groups.
As the investigation continues, the legal status of those previously released on bail remains uncertain. ChinaAid, which will continue to monitor the case, urges Chinese authorities to end the persecution of Christians involved and uphold constitutional protections for religious belief.
Gao Zhensai is a special correspondent for ChinaAid News. Founded in 2002, ChinaAid is an international Christian human rights organization committed to promoting religious freedom and the rule of law in China through advocacy, legal support, and international awareness campaigns.