Woman swims naked in Erhai Lake in SW China's Yunnan. Photo: Web

Recently, a video of a woman swimming naked in Erhai Lake in Dali, Southwest China's Yunnan Province, has been circulating online, attracting attention and causing controversy from netizens. It was confirmed by the local government on Monday that reporting was accurate, and that the public security authorities are currently investigating the matter.

On November 22, an official from the local government responded that swimming is prohibited in the core area of the Erhai Lake nature reserve, and the woman's behavior may have violated the public security regulations.

According to media reports, a lawyer stated that if it is true that the woman was swimming naked at the Erhai Lake, which is a public place, and she is over 14 years old with full capacity of civil conduct, she can be subjected to detention according to relevant regulations.

Another lawyer said that if the local authorities have fulfilled their safety precautions and reminder obligations, and the woman went swimming without permission, even if it involves safety issues, is considered self-inflicted risk. If the lake belongs to a water source protection zone, the woman may be suspected of violating the water pollution prevention and control law. The local environmental protection authority at the county level or above can order the cessation of illegal activities and impose a fine of up to 500 yuan ($70).

Global Times