Hilton Hotel shut down in China due to suspicion of prostitution

A Hilton Hotel operating in the Chongqing Municipality in China was closed by Chinese authorities Monday and arrested 22 people suspected of running a prostitution ring in the hotel.

Chongqing police are investigating the owner of the property, Qinglong Property Development Co, and its alleged links to an underworld gang running a prostitution ring at the hotel, China National Radio said. The hotel was shut down for business on Monday and customers were seen leaving with their luggage, the report said. The hotel's reception desk confirmed to AFP that the establishment had been closed, but refused to comment on the investigation. Authorities have detained over 100 hotel personnel who might have knowledge of the operation of the suspected prostitution ring. Hilton Hotel International manages the hotel in joint venture with the property owner. Hilton Hotel management said about the incident:

"Hilton Worldwide abides by all laws in every country in which its brands operate and is fully cooperating with the investigation."

It was also reported that the prostitution ring operators are also involved with illegal drugs.