Security has been intensified in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square following the attempted self-immolation of five people on the eve of Chinese New Year. The protest, in which one person died and the other four were injured, prompted identity checks and bag searches for everyone entering the square. Authorities claim the protest was staged by Falun Gong members but the religious group disavowed the act, accusing the government of waging a smear campaign against the organization. Tension remains high. Expect a visible security presence and possible searches in and around the square.
