The burning of 'fake money' as part of Tomb Sweeping Day celebrations in a mountainous region of eastern China has caused a major forest fire and the death of two forest rangers, authorities said today.
The fire broke out yesterday on Taihe Mountain in Chengyang District of Shandong Province.
The fire was controlled by evening, however, two forest rangers trapped by the fire died at the scene,the provincial forestry department said, adding, two suspects have been detained by the police.
Another ranger is in hospital for burn injuries, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.
The fire was found to have been caused by people burning "fake" paper money and incense ahead of the Tomb Sweeping Day on April 4.
Chinese people burn fake paper money and other possessions during or around the holiday to pay tribute to their late friends and family as part of their tradition.
