The Knockout (2023) s01e29 Episode Script
Episode 29
What do you want to know
by inviting me here today?
Your brother's group.
It's getting bigger and bigger.
He's been in this business for so long.
The situation is quite complicated actually.
So I think
maybe a simple person like you
should keep some distance.
For example, change your job,
or transfer to another hospital.
You should leave Jinghai
or even leave this province.
I think this is the only way
to keep you safe.
I grew up in Jinghai.
Now you tell me to leave here.
Where can I go?
Thank you for the dumplings.
Lan.
Stop following me.
I'll call the police if you keep doing this.
I'm a policeman.
I have to come if you make the call.
An Xin.
I do like you,
but you shouldn't do this to me.
I just want to advise you
to leave Jinghai.
Only in this way
can you stay away from your brother.
Don't be affected by him.
I lost my parents when I was young.
My brother brought me up.
He is my only family
in this world.
It's raining today.
Yes.
I'm here
because of a small matter.
I've been thinking about it
and I feel it's necessary
to
tell you the truth.
The day before yesterday,
someone asked me to have a meal.
It was Gao Qiqiang.
He didn’t say anything.
He just wanted me
to marry his sister
and took her
away from here.
Of course I didn't say yes.
But I think
he might
try to do something in desperation.
I didn't expect
Gao Qiqiang
to try to give us a hard time so soon.
We've never had such an experience.
I used to work in other places.
They always
butter me up before drawing the sword.
He did prepare a gift for you.
Well,
when you just came here,
we police
got some clues.
So we quickly destroyed
some underground casinos
and arrested some loan sharks.
That was the gift
from Gao Qiqiang.
But you two rejected it.
He underestimated us.
Well,
do you want to
strengthen the security
around
the guest house?
I can tell the bureau to do it.
Would Gao Qiqiang
dare to attack us directly?
Just in case.
This is all I wanted to say.
I'll take my leave now.
Okay.
If I remember correctly,
both you and Gao Qiqiang
grew up here.
Can you take us
to have a look at
the life environment
in which you grew up?
Like the place you lived
I just want to
know more
about Gao Qiqiang.
No problem.
Here. Come on.
This was Gao Qiqiang's home.
It’s an old house
left by his parents.
Why is this the only building not demolished?
This area is
called Old Factory Street.
This modification project
was handed to
Qiangsheng Group in 2010.
They demolished other buildings
and kept this one
on purpose.
I heard that
every year
he would bring his employees
here to celebrate.
It's kind of corporate culture.
It seems that on New Year's Eve,
he would also bring his family
back here to celebrate
and make dumplings together.
He said he couldn't forget his origin.
So he eats here every year
to recall the past memories.
If you could go back to 20 years ago,
would you still choose to
deliver food to Gao Qiqiang on New Year's Eve?
I wouldn't.
I'm not sure.
The problem is
no one knew what would happen next.
I think
everyone only has one choice
or forced to
make a decision
on a specific circumstance.
It's time for me
to make a choice then.
I've always had a question.
I'm a police officer from Jinghai.
Do you trust me?
We've done some research.
The problem is
whether you trust us or not.
Actually, I understand.
If we turn hostile
against them
before we find out the protective umbrella
behind Qiangsheng Group,
what will we do in the future?
All these years,
I never thought
about my future.
Okay.
Welcome on board.
I've been waiting for this day
for a long time.
You came.
Well,
put your work aside.
Come on.
You all know about An Xin,
right?
This is Deputy Director Qi
of our Public Security Department.
Hello, Sir.
An Xin,
under the suggestion of the guidance team of education and rectification
and the provincial anti-gang office,
we're going to treat 715 special case as our priority
and form a new special investigation team.
And as Jinghai Public Security Bureau
of the Provincial Department of Public Security recommended,
An Xin
will be the deputy team leader of this special investigation team.
What? Do you have a problem?
You only told me
to join this team.
You didn't mention
Now you know.
Are you getting cold feet?
So many colleagues
are elite soldiers
from all departments.
I
I'm not good enough.
Right?
An Xin.
After discussion,
we all agreed that
you are the most suitable person for this job
in Jinghai.
Come on.
Applaud for him.
Ask the boss
to make some fried dough sticks for me.
Dad.
How high is your cholesterol? You shouldn't eat that.
I haven't eaten them for half a year.
Just this once.
Okay.
You were talking about
the loan?
Xiaolong,
try not to talk to Yao
about the company's business,
alright?
Okay.
Now,
the guidance team
is onto us.
I don't think
these people will leave soon.
Your business is the most troublesome.
Stop it for a while.
Brother Qiang.
Those from the guidance team
are paid to do their job.
It doesn't matter
how long they stay here.
But our business
will be over if we stop.
What are you afraid of?
If the guidance team can leave,
we can give them a few more lives.
Okay.
Hello?
Is Xiaohu alright?
He's fine.
All these years,
I usually don't ask anything
about things you do.
But these are not normal times.
No matter what happens,
you must tell me
and report everything to me.
Xiaohu.
Your brother said something happened to you.
Nothing, don't listen to him.
Nothing.
Really?
Yes.
Do you still have contact with those people
from the Municipal Public Security Bureau?
Yes.
I drank with them
the day before yesterday.
Do me a favor.
Help me save someone.
Who?
My henchman, Wang Shuai.
What’s wrong?
There are
so many shops in the Couple Street.
They didn't pay the rent.
So yesterday, he found a group of people
to deal with one of those
in debt.
Are you still not paying the rent for next year?
I just paid the rent
for less than half a year.
Why would I pay the rent for next year?
I didn't set this rule.
You just have to pay.
Please give me more time.
Not paying, huh?
Fine. Today,
I'll make you an example
of those who don't pay the rent
in this street.
Let's go.
No, Mr. Wang.
-Mr. Wang. -Come here.
We can't keep enduring this.
We've called the police.
They think it was just a fighting.
I remember
there's a reporting platform
on the Internet, right?
Why don't you
try to report him?
Someone called the police
and Wang Shuai was taken away immediately.
Xiaohu.
We are not young anymore.
Can you use your brain
before you do something?
Alright, stop it.
I'll call Brother Qiang
to explain.
Didn't he just tell us to keep a low profile?
Enough.
I didn't say I wouldn't help you.
Make your call.
I got a phone.
Brother.
It's me.
Please don't call me Daggar.
I need to tell you something.
A man named
Wang Shuai.
Wang Shuai.
Last night,
he hit someone
on the Couple Street.
Let's see if we can reach an agreement or something.
As for the compensation for work expenses
or medical expenses,
we're willing to pay the victim.
Okay.
Okay.
I got it.
I understand. Thank you.
Brother,
I'll ask someone to send you
several cases of good wine.
Okay.
How is it?
He wasn't caught by the Jinghai Public Security Bureau.
He was caught by the provincial special investigation team.
Whether I hit him or not
should be judged by Jinghai's policemen.
Why are you so nosy?
We suspect
your company is related to gangs.
Why do you say that?
Based on the evidence we have,
people from your company
all got the same tattoo
on the arm, right?
You also have the same slogan.
Explain it.
Qiangsheng Group has been developing for so many years.
Their organization structure is huge.
People of their group
are used to being domineering.
Even if Gao Qiqiang wants to restrain them,
he's not able to do that.
Someone is always causing trouble.
Wang Shuai is just a small role
in Qiangsheng Group.
What's the use of catching him?
It doesn't matter
as long as he is from Qiangsheng Group.
All these years, Gao Qiqiang
has been trying to show
everyone in Jinghai
that
none of us can touch
his people from Qiangsheng.
So now
what we did is against his wish,
making those who stand on his side
to reconsider.
Have you read the new tip-off?
An assault case in the Couple Street.
It's a typical case of gang crimes.
There's more to that.
The informant said
they called the police many times,
but the problem was never solved properly.
If the situation is true,
it means the police didn't register the case
or never investigated it.
That's duty crime.
And the police station in their jurisdiction
is related to the case
we're working on.
Fang Ning,
let's go and find out.
There's no sign here.
Yes.
Here.
237
-Hello. -Who are you?
Hello.
Did you
give us clues on the reporting platform?
We are here
to verify the details and investigate the case.
Sorry, we'll withdraw the report.
I'm so sorry.
We will
keep it a secret for you.
And we will
guarantee your safety.
Can we go in?
Lihua.
Who is it?
I reported yesterday.
They really came.
Why are you still causing trouble?
Why did you do that?
How would I know they'd come?
Are you Hu Yong?
We're here
to ask you some details about the dispute
between you and Wang Shuai.
You call that a dispute?
We were the ones who got beaten up.
Shut up!
How long are you going to put up with it?
What choice do I have?
Our kid is in college.
If we offend them,
how will we keep doing our business?
We'll lose everything.
How are we going to pay the tuition fee for our child?
You're just a coward.
Please.
Calm down.
Let's sit down and talk.
I'm from the anti-gang office.
We're responsible for investigating cases related to gang crimes.
Please sit.
We're here to
to figure out what happened
and solve the problem for you.
Madam,
why don't you go first?
How long are you going to put up with it?
Do you think the trouble we're facing is not big enough?
This
is the leasing contract
of our shop in the Couple Street.
It is set to expire at the end of the year.
But last month, he suddenly raised the price
and asked us to pay
next year's rent immediately.
If we don't pay,
we'll have to leave right away.
Is this contract signed every year?
Yes. And the price also increases every year.
The Couple Street is indeed a bustling street.
Our business has been doing well.
But the money
won't come to our pocket.
What did the police do?
Please.
You may leave.
If you don't get involved in this,
we will still get some compensation.
Then we can raise some money
and pay the rent.
If you interfere,
I'm afraid
we won't get a penny.
Sir,
you may be able to pay next year's rent.
But what about the year after that?
Are you going to let them
keep blackmailing you?
What else can I do?
We've been to the police station.
We also made the statement.
But this property belongs to them.
We have to listen to them.
We can't afford to
offend them.
They
are sent by their superiors to help us.
If you don't tell them now,
there will be no opportunity later.
What should I tell them?
What's the use of
arresting them?
They will come out in a few days.
How many times has it been?
Don't you know?
Sir,
we're here to remove
the protective umbrella of criminals.
We can help you this time.
We'll withdraw the report.
You can leave now.
Director Liu.
Let's meet in our old place,
Ruyi Hall.
I'll wait for you.
Director Zhang,
when will you arrive?
Mr. Tang, can we serve the dishes now?
Wait a minute.
Serve the dishes when the guests arrive.
Okay.
Thank you.
How much did you prepare?
Two hundred.
Brother,
I've pulled my strings before.
They didn't dare to accept the money.
Because the relationship is not solid enough.
Didn’t you say Wang Shuai
was taken away by the guidance team?
Yes.
But our guests today
are leaders of the Municipal Bureau.
If they dare to take the money,
it means the problem can be solved.
Isn’t Wang Shuai
just a property manager?
He knows a lot or what?
I'll tell you
about this later.
But we can't afford to
let the Couple Street be investigated.
Mr. Tang.
Serve the dishes later.
Mr. Tang,
I told you
to wait.
Stop knocking!
Sir, this way please.
Brother Qiang,
the people you invited
called me.
They can't come.
What is this?
A gift for them?
Do you know why
they won't come?
Why did the guidance team come to Jinghai?
It's just a formality.
They come every one or two years.
This time is different.
Recently,
I attended several meetings in the city.
I finally understood.
The provincial guidance team is here to
take actions of education and rectification
in our political and legal system.
They
need to build
a loyal, honest,
and reliable political and legal team desperately.
At this critical moment,
who dares to come
to this meal?
Xiaohu.
I haven't
interfere in your business for a long time.
My expectations for you
might be too high these years.
It must be hard for you.
From now on,
I'll take over.
Tell me
everything you know.
Don't hide anything from me.
We've visited
57 tenants.
Their leasing contracts
are useless.
They always raise the rent as they want.
Wang Shuai and his gang members
have been taking violent measures.
But few people
dared to call the police.
When things got out of control,
they would just use money to settle everything.
If we want to
initiate a public prosecution，
how many people are willing to testify?
I'm not optimistic about that.
I don't think they are even
willing to sign
on the statement record.
How’s the interrogation of Wang Shuai?
He’s quite familiar with
the process.
He insisted that it was just an economic dispute.
If Hu Yong can't testify,
we can only treat it as a fight.
Although we're in a hurry
to have a breakthrough,
we must follow
the rules as always.
Let me remind you.
Our actions must be legitimate.
Take me
to find Hu Yong and his wife first.
I'll talk to them
and see
if they are willing to support us.
Hello.
Is anyone home?
She's not answering her phone.
Could they be kidnapped?
Hello.
Excuse me.
Do you know where Hu Yong and his wife
are?
They moved the day before yesterday.
Are you sure?
Yes, they packed everything
and came back to carry the bags twice.
Do you know where they went?
No.
We didn't find any records
of bus or air tickets
purchased by Hu Yong and his wife.
They should still be in Jinghai.
This couple
can't bear to see their investment in the shop go to waste.
They won't leave Jinghai.
They must have been threatened
to move away.
It will tell us the answer.
Zoom in the plate.
Check it.
The car belongs to Gangsheng Group.
Should we check the owner?
Stop beating around the bush.
Let's go directly to Gao Qiqiang.
You two.
Let's go.
Hello, Officer An.
Have you eaten? Let's eat together.
Let me introduce.
Sun Xu, Fang Ning.
Come, sit down. Let's eat.
Which department are you from?
The special investigation team.
Commission of Discipline Inspection.
You guessed right.
You're really
Got a promotion?
Now he is the deputy team leader
of our special investigation team.
Impressive.
I'm only on secondment.
What special investigation team?
Gang crimes.
Qiangsheng Group is involved.
What can I do for you?
Gao Qiqiang.
Where did you hide Hu Yong and his wife?
Hu Yong?
I don't know him.
I remember now.
He's not here.
Where is he?
Please take us to them.
We need to ensure their safety.
Do you know
why they are avoiding you?
Because your team must have
disturbed their normal life.
Even so,
we still want them
to tell us in person.
If I help you,
what rewards will I get?
Gao Qiqiang,
Cooperating with us
is the duty of every citizen.
Do I need you to tell me that?
I'm not interested in cooperating with you two.
If I'm going to help,
I'll be doing a favor for my brother.
Let me write it down for you.
Alright?
Now that I helped you,
I also have a personal request.
Is that alright?
What request?
Go find him first.
After that,
we can talk in private.
Come, sit down and eat.
I'm busy.
I'll leave now.
Okay.
Take care.
Remember to eat.
This neighborhood is quite grand.
This is downtown.
So the houses here are the most expensive.
Is it here?
Why are you here?
I said I'd withdraw the report.
Why are you here?
This is our deputy leader
of the special investigation team, An Xin.
I hope you can cooperate
with our investigation.
I've told you
everything I know.
Go find someone else.
Hu Yong.
Gao Qiqiang
gave you this house, right?
Yes.
What did he ask you to do in return?
Make peace with Wang Shuai.
You submitted
the report yourself.
Gao Qiqiang bought you a house
so you just let it go?
I was too reckless.
I'm so sorry.
I apologize.
But
we really can't
afford to buy such a beautiful house
even if we work hard for the rest of our life.
Do you think
Gao Qiqiang gave you the house
because he felt guilty?
He gave it to you because he wanted to stop us
from investigating.
If we leave,
no one will guarantee
you can keep the house.
Besides,
you provided us with the clues.
If you hide anything from us,
you'll have to take legal responsibility.
All right, let's go.
Why didn't you say anything?
For what?
They have such a beautiful house.
Why would they accuse Wang Shuai?
I just wanted to tell them
once the assets of Qiangsheng Group
are liquidated,
they won't be able to keep
this house.
They won't be afraid.
They prefer to protect this house,
so as to protect
the Qiangsheng Group.
You're quite generous.
Not bad.
I did it out of kindness.
The couple made a lot of efforts
to do their small business.
I used to be like them, right?
I almost forgot
what you were like before.
How time flies. Bye.
Let's talk.
Sorry.
I told you before.
I'm willing to cooperate with you.
But I also have
a personal request.
Do me a favor.
You can tell me.
But I'm not sure I can do that for you.
Help me make an appointment with
the two leaders of the guidance team.
I want to have a meal with them.
They misunderstood me before.
I want to make it clear face to face.
You want to have dinner with Xu Zhong.
Well,
I'm telling you it's impossible.
But if you want to
cooperate with us,
you sure can meet with him.
Okay, that's it. Let's go.
Alright.
Then I'll do it in my own way.
Whatever.
With the wealth of Qiangsheng Group,
he can purchase
all of the shops in the Couple Street.
We can't
let him play the active role.
What do you think?
I
I remember you said
the crackdown on gang crimes
and the education and rectification in our political and legal system this time
can't be limited to the current moment.
If it's necessary,
we can trace back to 20 years ago.
Those who committed crimes will be punished.
What's the matter?
Nothing.
The Couple Street
didn't belong to Qiangsheng Group before.
Shahai Group was in
in charge of its development and operation.
These two groups
fought against each other so many times
for this street.
Then how did it fall
in the hands of Qiangsheng Group?
Jiang Tian
is the representative of the business investment
of our city.
If something goes wrong with him,
the whole city will be humiliated.
So I heard
some leader in the city showed up
and asked them to make peace with each other.
That's how
Qiangsheng Group took over
the street.
How could Jiang Tian agree?
I heard that
the price was fair.
Jiang Tian used the money
to build the Shahai Hotel.
So the problem
was solved properly.
What kind of person is Jiang Tian?
I don't know him.
But I heard that
he's a straightforward person.
And he's a member of the Municipal Consultative Conference.
Plus, leaders in this city tend to
to protect him.
So, to be honest, Gao Qiqiang can't lay a finger on him.
Do you think
Jiang Tian will help us
if we talk to him?
At least he is quite rich.
He won't be bribed by Gao Qiqiang.
Mr. Jiang,
In 2015,
the police received a call
that you and your driver
were attacked on the Couple Street.
Your car
was also smashed.
But in the end,
it was not registered on the record.
Two weeks later,
you sold the Couple Street
to Qangsheng Group.
Is there something
between these two things?
I know
you are
from the guidance team.
Is there a problem?
An sir.
If Gao and I
get into a bloody fight,
I still have a say in Jinghai.
But if I work with the guidance team,
I won't be able to stay in Jinghai anymore.
Okay?
Did
some leader
send you a message?
You have always been
a fair and righteous person.
But you never defeated
Gao Qiqiang.
You must be upset.
I think
if we can build
a fair and impartial
business environment in Jinghai,
you,
the Shahai Group,
and other businessmen
can all benefit from it, right?
Have you thought about it?
If you lose,
how will you live?
All these years,
I never won.
But I'm still living a good life, right?
Right.
Right.
But not everyone
is willing to take such a big risk.
No, Mr Jiang.
I understand.
That's all.
If you want to
talk to me later,
call me anytime.
Wait.
I
I had a driver
who worked for me for many years.
But he always made mistakes.
I fired him today.
But he does know
many things.
I'm leaving now.
How many years did you work for Jiang Tian?
I worked for him from 2012
to this morning.
On November 7th
in 2015,
Jiang Tian and you
were attacked on the Couple Street.
Can you tell me
what happened back then?
After Shahai Group
took over the project of the Couple Street,
someone just kept causing them trouble.
The project couldn't get started.
Mr. Jiang was left
with no choice
but ask someone to contact Gao Qiqiang,
wishing to settle it peacefully with him.
Gao Qiqiang
invited him to a meeting
at night on the weekends.
My boss didn't think much and went there.
Boss.
I don't think it's a place
to talk.
He asked me to come here.
How shameless could he be
if he tries to harm me here?
But what if he doesn't follow the rules?
Start the car. Be prepared.
Okay.
Mr. Jiang.
Let’s go.
Where is Gao Qiqiang?
Get in the car. I'll take you to him.
He asked me to come here.
Tell him to talk to me in person.
Looks like you prefer the hard way.
Let's go.
Get in the car.
We got a flat tire.
The car won't move.
Get off!
Where is Jiang Tian?
Where is Jiang Tian?
I'm alone in the car.
Being stubborn, huh? Beat him!
Are you alright?
Doctor! Nurse! Help!
I'm the inspector
of Pingkang Police Station.
They have reported to me
about your case.
But now,
we need to go back to the station
to verify your statement.
Is that okay?
Yes.
Open the door.
Well,
take a rest in the car.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I sent you to the hospital out of kindness.
But you just reported me to the police?
No, it wasn't me. It was the doctor.
The doctor called the police.
Please.
Spare me.
Spare you?
Fine.
Do as I say
when you go to the police station
to make your statement.
When I got to the police station,
I said what Wang Shuai told me to say.
I lied that
Mr. Jiang went to
take a look at the Couple Street.
Then he met a bunch of drunk men.
They had a quarrel
before they fought.
How did they settle the case in the end?
He paid me 20,000 yuan.
Wang Shuai and his men
were only detained for a few days
because of provoking a fight.
Do you have any evidence for what you said?
The dashcam
recorded
what happened that night.
But I didn't dare to give it to the police.
Do you still have the video?
Yes.
The boss told me to keep it.
Judging from
what Lin Asheng said,
the time and details all match.
I've seen
the video of
the dashcam.
It recorded everything,
including how they parked the car and got into a fight.
We have witnesses and evidence.
This time, Wang Shuai
won’t be able to escape.
How about the police station
that received the call?
The inspector who
handled this case
is called Lu Peng.
Lu Peng
is still in his position.
He's been working there
all these years?
There are hospitals and commercial streets
in Pingkang district.
Many people
have been running their business there.
They must've gotten well
with each other all these years.
In my opinion,
if he got promoted,
the money he earns
wouldn't be as much as it is now.
He changed the statement
and punished criminals lightly for a serious crime,
disregarding the interests of the people
and trampling the judicial procedure.
What he did is more than enough to make him face the most serious punishment.
What's his name again?
Lu Peng.
Give me
Lu Peng's investigation form.
Okay.
Check this carefully.
Let's see how many lies he told.
Let me fill your cup.
We have rules.
We can't drink at work.
It's okay. Just a sip.
Inspector Lu.
An Xin.
Why are you here?
I see you guys are having a good time.
You drank such good wine
at noon.
We're not drinking too much.
Have a seat.
Who is
Let me introduce.
Come in.
I'm Fang Ning from the Commission of Discipline Inspection.
Lu Peng,
please come back with us for investigation.
I was just having a meal
with my friends.
Why did you make a fuss and
bring me here?
Looks like
you don't want to cooperate.
I have nothing to say.
Okay.
I have nothing to ask.
I
I need to go to the toilet.
Go ahead.
Where are you going?
You brought me here without asking anything.
You're wasting my time.
You're all here.
Come on. Let's go.
by inviting me here today?
Your brother's group.
It's getting bigger and bigger.
He's been in this business for so long.
The situation is quite complicated actually.
So I think
maybe a simple person like you
should keep some distance.
For example, change your job,
or transfer to another hospital.
You should leave Jinghai
or even leave this province.
I think this is the only way
to keep you safe.
I grew up in Jinghai.
Now you tell me to leave here.
Where can I go?
Thank you for the dumplings.
Lan.
Stop following me.
I'll call the police if you keep doing this.
I'm a policeman.
I have to come if you make the call.
An Xin.
I do like you,
but you shouldn't do this to me.
I just want to advise you
to leave Jinghai.
Only in this way
can you stay away from your brother.
Don't be affected by him.
I lost my parents when I was young.
My brother brought me up.
He is my only family
in this world.
It's raining today.
Yes.
I'm here
because of a small matter.
I've been thinking about it
and I feel it's necessary
to
tell you the truth.
The day before yesterday,
someone asked me to have a meal.
It was Gao Qiqiang.
He didn’t say anything.
He just wanted me
to marry his sister
and took her
away from here.
Of course I didn't say yes.
But I think
he might
try to do something in desperation.
I didn't expect
Gao Qiqiang
to try to give us a hard time so soon.
We've never had such an experience.
I used to work in other places.
They always
butter me up before drawing the sword.
He did prepare a gift for you.
Well,
when you just came here,
we police
got some clues.
So we quickly destroyed
some underground casinos
and arrested some loan sharks.
That was the gift
from Gao Qiqiang.
But you two rejected it.
He underestimated us.
Well,
do you want to
strengthen the security
around
the guest house?
I can tell the bureau to do it.
Would Gao Qiqiang
dare to attack us directly?
Just in case.
This is all I wanted to say.
I'll take my leave now.
Okay.
If I remember correctly,
both you and Gao Qiqiang
grew up here.
Can you take us
to have a look at
the life environment
in which you grew up?
Like the place you lived
I just want to
know more
about Gao Qiqiang.
No problem.
Here. Come on.
This was Gao Qiqiang's home.
It’s an old house
left by his parents.
Why is this the only building not demolished?
This area is
called Old Factory Street.
This modification project
was handed to
Qiangsheng Group in 2010.
They demolished other buildings
and kept this one
on purpose.
I heard that
every year
he would bring his employees
here to celebrate.
It's kind of corporate culture.
It seems that on New Year's Eve,
he would also bring his family
back here to celebrate
and make dumplings together.
He said he couldn't forget his origin.
So he eats here every year
to recall the past memories.
If you could go back to 20 years ago,
would you still choose to
deliver food to Gao Qiqiang on New Year's Eve?
I wouldn't.
I'm not sure.
The problem is
no one knew what would happen next.
I think
everyone only has one choice
or forced to
make a decision
on a specific circumstance.
It's time for me
to make a choice then.
I've always had a question.
I'm a police officer from Jinghai.
Do you trust me?
We've done some research.
The problem is
whether you trust us or not.
Actually, I understand.
If we turn hostile
against them
before we find out the protective umbrella
behind Qiangsheng Group,
what will we do in the future?
All these years,
I never thought
about my future.
Okay.
Welcome on board.
I've been waiting for this day
for a long time.
You came.
Well,
put your work aside.
Come on.
You all know about An Xin,
right?
This is Deputy Director Qi
of our Public Security Department.
Hello, Sir.
An Xin,
under the suggestion of the guidance team of education and rectification
and the provincial anti-gang office,
we're going to treat 715 special case as our priority
and form a new special investigation team.
And as Jinghai Public Security Bureau
of the Provincial Department of Public Security recommended,
An Xin
will be the deputy team leader of this special investigation team.
What? Do you have a problem?
You only told me
to join this team.
You didn't mention
Now you know.
Are you getting cold feet?
So many colleagues
are elite soldiers
from all departments.
I
I'm not good enough.
Right?
An Xin.
After discussion,
we all agreed that
you are the most suitable person for this job
in Jinghai.
Come on.
Applaud for him.
Ask the boss
to make some fried dough sticks for me.
Dad.
How high is your cholesterol? You shouldn't eat that.
I haven't eaten them for half a year.
Just this once.
Okay.
You were talking about
the loan?
Xiaolong,
try not to talk to Yao
about the company's business,
alright?
Okay.
Now,
the guidance team
is onto us.
I don't think
these people will leave soon.
Your business is the most troublesome.
Stop it for a while.
Brother Qiang.
Those from the guidance team
are paid to do their job.
It doesn't matter
how long they stay here.
But our business
will be over if we stop.
What are you afraid of?
If the guidance team can leave,
we can give them a few more lives.
Okay.
Hello?
Is Xiaohu alright?
He's fine.
All these years,
I usually don't ask anything
about things you do.
But these are not normal times.
No matter what happens,
you must tell me
and report everything to me.
Xiaohu.
Your brother said something happened to you.
Nothing, don't listen to him.
Nothing.
Really?
Yes.
Do you still have contact with those people
from the Municipal Public Security Bureau?
Yes.
I drank with them
the day before yesterday.
Do me a favor.
Help me save someone.
Who?
My henchman, Wang Shuai.
What’s wrong?
There are
so many shops in the Couple Street.
They didn't pay the rent.
So yesterday, he found a group of people
to deal with one of those
in debt.
Are you still not paying the rent for next year?
I just paid the rent
for less than half a year.
Why would I pay the rent for next year?
I didn't set this rule.
You just have to pay.
Please give me more time.
Not paying, huh?
Fine. Today,
I'll make you an example
of those who don't pay the rent
in this street.
Let's go.
No, Mr. Wang.
-Mr. Wang. -Come here.
We can't keep enduring this.
We've called the police.
They think it was just a fighting.
I remember
there's a reporting platform
on the Internet, right?
Why don't you
try to report him?
Someone called the police
and Wang Shuai was taken away immediately.
Xiaohu.
We are not young anymore.
Can you use your brain
before you do something?
Alright, stop it.
I'll call Brother Qiang
to explain.
Didn't he just tell us to keep a low profile?
Enough.
I didn't say I wouldn't help you.
Make your call.
I got a phone.
Brother.
It's me.
Please don't call me Daggar.
I need to tell you something.
A man named
Wang Shuai.
Wang Shuai.
Last night,
he hit someone
on the Couple Street.
Let's see if we can reach an agreement or something.
As for the compensation for work expenses
or medical expenses,
we're willing to pay the victim.
Okay.
Okay.
I got it.
I understand. Thank you.
Brother,
I'll ask someone to send you
several cases of good wine.
Okay.
How is it?
He wasn't caught by the Jinghai Public Security Bureau.
He was caught by the provincial special investigation team.
Whether I hit him or not
should be judged by Jinghai's policemen.
Why are you so nosy?
We suspect
your company is related to gangs.
Why do you say that?
Based on the evidence we have,
people from your company
all got the same tattoo
on the arm, right?
You also have the same slogan.
Explain it.
Qiangsheng Group has been developing for so many years.
Their organization structure is huge.
People of their group
are used to being domineering.
Even if Gao Qiqiang wants to restrain them,
he's not able to do that.
Someone is always causing trouble.
Wang Shuai is just a small role
in Qiangsheng Group.
What's the use of catching him?
It doesn't matter
as long as he is from Qiangsheng Group.
All these years, Gao Qiqiang
has been trying to show
everyone in Jinghai
that
none of us can touch
his people from Qiangsheng.
So now
what we did is against his wish,
making those who stand on his side
to reconsider.
Have you read the new tip-off?
An assault case in the Couple Street.
It's a typical case of gang crimes.
There's more to that.
The informant said
they called the police many times,
but the problem was never solved properly.
If the situation is true,
it means the police didn't register the case
or never investigated it.
That's duty crime.
And the police station in their jurisdiction
is related to the case
we're working on.
Fang Ning,
let's go and find out.
There's no sign here.
Yes.
Here.
237
-Hello. -Who are you?
Hello.
Did you
give us clues on the reporting platform?
We are here
to verify the details and investigate the case.
Sorry, we'll withdraw the report.
I'm so sorry.
We will
keep it a secret for you.
And we will
guarantee your safety.
Can we go in?
Lihua.
Who is it?
I reported yesterday.
They really came.
Why are you still causing trouble?
Why did you do that?
How would I know they'd come?
Are you Hu Yong?
We're here
to ask you some details about the dispute
between you and Wang Shuai.
You call that a dispute?
We were the ones who got beaten up.
Shut up!
How long are you going to put up with it?
What choice do I have?
Our kid is in college.
If we offend them,
how will we keep doing our business?
We'll lose everything.
How are we going to pay the tuition fee for our child?
You're just a coward.
Please.
Calm down.
Let's sit down and talk.
I'm from the anti-gang office.
We're responsible for investigating cases related to gang crimes.
Please sit.
We're here to
to figure out what happened
and solve the problem for you.
Madam,
why don't you go first?
How long are you going to put up with it?
Do you think the trouble we're facing is not big enough?
This
is the leasing contract
of our shop in the Couple Street.
It is set to expire at the end of the year.
But last month, he suddenly raised the price
and asked us to pay
next year's rent immediately.
If we don't pay,
we'll have to leave right away.
Is this contract signed every year?
Yes. And the price also increases every year.
The Couple Street is indeed a bustling street.
Our business has been doing well.
But the money
won't come to our pocket.
What did the police do?
Please.
You may leave.
If you don't get involved in this,
we will still get some compensation.
Then we can raise some money
and pay the rent.
If you interfere,
I'm afraid
we won't get a penny.
Sir,
you may be able to pay next year's rent.
But what about the year after that?
Are you going to let them
keep blackmailing you?
What else can I do?
We've been to the police station.
We also made the statement.
But this property belongs to them.
We have to listen to them.
We can't afford to
offend them.
They
are sent by their superiors to help us.
If you don't tell them now,
there will be no opportunity later.
What should I tell them?
What's the use of
arresting them?
They will come out in a few days.
How many times has it been?
Don't you know?
Sir,
we're here to remove
the protective umbrella of criminals.
We can help you this time.
We'll withdraw the report.
You can leave now.
Director Liu.
Let's meet in our old place,
Ruyi Hall.
I'll wait for you.
Director Zhang,
when will you arrive?
Mr. Tang, can we serve the dishes now?
Wait a minute.
Serve the dishes when the guests arrive.
Okay.
Thank you.
How much did you prepare?
Two hundred.
Brother,
I've pulled my strings before.
They didn't dare to accept the money.
Because the relationship is not solid enough.
Didn’t you say Wang Shuai
was taken away by the guidance team?
Yes.
But our guests today
are leaders of the Municipal Bureau.
If they dare to take the money,
it means the problem can be solved.
Isn’t Wang Shuai
just a property manager?
He knows a lot or what?
I'll tell you
about this later.
But we can't afford to
let the Couple Street be investigated.
Mr. Tang.
Serve the dishes later.
Mr. Tang,
I told you
to wait.
Stop knocking!
Sir, this way please.
Brother Qiang,
the people you invited
called me.
They can't come.
What is this?
A gift for them?
Do you know why
they won't come?
Why did the guidance team come to Jinghai?
It's just a formality.
They come every one or two years.
This time is different.
Recently,
I attended several meetings in the city.
I finally understood.
The provincial guidance team is here to
take actions of education and rectification
in our political and legal system.
They
need to build
a loyal, honest,
and reliable political and legal team desperately.
At this critical moment,
who dares to come
to this meal?
Xiaohu.
I haven't
interfere in your business for a long time.
My expectations for you
might be too high these years.
It must be hard for you.
From now on,
I'll take over.
Tell me
everything you know.
Don't hide anything from me.
We've visited
57 tenants.
Their leasing contracts
are useless.
They always raise the rent as they want.
Wang Shuai and his gang members
have been taking violent measures.
But few people
dared to call the police.
When things got out of control,
they would just use money to settle everything.
If we want to
initiate a public prosecution，
how many people are willing to testify?
I'm not optimistic about that.
I don't think they are even
willing to sign
on the statement record.
How’s the interrogation of Wang Shuai?
He’s quite familiar with
the process.
He insisted that it was just an economic dispute.
If Hu Yong can't testify,
we can only treat it as a fight.
Although we're in a hurry
to have a breakthrough,
we must follow
the rules as always.
Let me remind you.
Our actions must be legitimate.
Take me
to find Hu Yong and his wife first.
I'll talk to them
and see
if they are willing to support us.
Hello.
Is anyone home?
She's not answering her phone.
Could they be kidnapped?
Hello.
Excuse me.
Do you know where Hu Yong and his wife
are?
They moved the day before yesterday.
Are you sure?
Yes, they packed everything
and came back to carry the bags twice.
Do you know where they went?
No.
We didn't find any records
of bus or air tickets
purchased by Hu Yong and his wife.
They should still be in Jinghai.
This couple
can't bear to see their investment in the shop go to waste.
They won't leave Jinghai.
They must have been threatened
to move away.
It will tell us the answer.
Zoom in the plate.
Check it.
The car belongs to Gangsheng Group.
Should we check the owner?
Stop beating around the bush.
Let's go directly to Gao Qiqiang.
You two.
Let's go.
Hello, Officer An.
Have you eaten? Let's eat together.
Let me introduce.
Sun Xu, Fang Ning.
Come, sit down. Let's eat.
Which department are you from?
The special investigation team.
Commission of Discipline Inspection.
You guessed right.
You're really
Got a promotion?
Now he is the deputy team leader
of our special investigation team.
Impressive.
I'm only on secondment.
What special investigation team?
Gang crimes.
Qiangsheng Group is involved.
What can I do for you?
Gao Qiqiang.
Where did you hide Hu Yong and his wife?
Hu Yong?
I don't know him.
I remember now.
He's not here.
Where is he?
Please take us to them.
We need to ensure their safety.
Do you know
why they are avoiding you?
Because your team must have
disturbed their normal life.
Even so,
we still want them
to tell us in person.
If I help you,
what rewards will I get?
Gao Qiqiang,
Cooperating with us
is the duty of every citizen.
Do I need you to tell me that?
I'm not interested in cooperating with you two.
If I'm going to help,
I'll be doing a favor for my brother.
Let me write it down for you.
Alright?
Now that I helped you,
I also have a personal request.
Is that alright?
What request?
Go find him first.
After that,
we can talk in private.
Come, sit down and eat.
I'm busy.
I'll leave now.
Okay.
Take care.
Remember to eat.
This neighborhood is quite grand.
This is downtown.
So the houses here are the most expensive.
Is it here?
Why are you here?
I said I'd withdraw the report.
Why are you here?
This is our deputy leader
of the special investigation team, An Xin.
I hope you can cooperate
with our investigation.
I've told you
everything I know.
Go find someone else.
Hu Yong.
Gao Qiqiang
gave you this house, right?
Yes.
What did he ask you to do in return?
Make peace with Wang Shuai.
You submitted
the report yourself.
Gao Qiqiang bought you a house
so you just let it go?
I was too reckless.
I'm so sorry.
I apologize.
But
we really can't
afford to buy such a beautiful house
even if we work hard for the rest of our life.
Do you think
Gao Qiqiang gave you the house
because he felt guilty?
He gave it to you because he wanted to stop us
from investigating.
If we leave,
no one will guarantee
you can keep the house.
Besides,
you provided us with the clues.
If you hide anything from us,
you'll have to take legal responsibility.
All right, let's go.
Why didn't you say anything?
For what?
They have such a beautiful house.
Why would they accuse Wang Shuai?
I just wanted to tell them
once the assets of Qiangsheng Group
are liquidated,
they won't be able to keep
this house.
They won't be afraid.
They prefer to protect this house,
so as to protect
the Qiangsheng Group.
You're quite generous.
Not bad.
I did it out of kindness.
The couple made a lot of efforts
to do their small business.
I used to be like them, right?
I almost forgot
what you were like before.
How time flies. Bye.
Let's talk.
Sorry.
I told you before.
I'm willing to cooperate with you.
But I also have
a personal request.
Do me a favor.
You can tell me.
But I'm not sure I can do that for you.
Help me make an appointment with
the two leaders of the guidance team.
I want to have a meal with them.
They misunderstood me before.
I want to make it clear face to face.
You want to have dinner with Xu Zhong.
Well,
I'm telling you it's impossible.
But if you want to
cooperate with us,
you sure can meet with him.
Okay, that's it. Let's go.
Alright.
Then I'll do it in my own way.
Whatever.
With the wealth of Qiangsheng Group,
he can purchase
all of the shops in the Couple Street.
We can't
let him play the active role.
What do you think?
I
I remember you said
the crackdown on gang crimes
and the education and rectification in our political and legal system this time
can't be limited to the current moment.
If it's necessary,
we can trace back to 20 years ago.
Those who committed crimes will be punished.
What's the matter?
Nothing.
The Couple Street
didn't belong to Qiangsheng Group before.
Shahai Group was in
in charge of its development and operation.
These two groups
fought against each other so many times
for this street.
Then how did it fall
in the hands of Qiangsheng Group?
Jiang Tian
is the representative of the business investment
of our city.
If something goes wrong with him,
the whole city will be humiliated.
So I heard
some leader in the city showed up
and asked them to make peace with each other.
That's how
Qiangsheng Group took over
the street.
How could Jiang Tian agree?
I heard that
the price was fair.
Jiang Tian used the money
to build the Shahai Hotel.
So the problem
was solved properly.
What kind of person is Jiang Tian?
I don't know him.
But I heard that
he's a straightforward person.
And he's a member of the Municipal Consultative Conference.
Plus, leaders in this city tend to
to protect him.
So, to be honest, Gao Qiqiang can't lay a finger on him.
Do you think
Jiang Tian will help us
if we talk to him?
At least he is quite rich.
He won't be bribed by Gao Qiqiang.
Mr. Jiang,
In 2015,
the police received a call
that you and your driver
were attacked on the Couple Street.
Your car
was also smashed.
But in the end,
it was not registered on the record.
Two weeks later,
you sold the Couple Street
to Qangsheng Group.
Is there something
between these two things?
I know
you are
from the guidance team.
Is there a problem?
An sir.
If Gao and I
get into a bloody fight,
I still have a say in Jinghai.
But if I work with the guidance team,
I won't be able to stay in Jinghai anymore.
Okay?
Did
some leader
send you a message?
You have always been
a fair and righteous person.
But you never defeated
Gao Qiqiang.
You must be upset.
I think
if we can build
a fair and impartial
business environment in Jinghai,
you,
the Shahai Group,
and other businessmen
can all benefit from it, right?
Have you thought about it?
If you lose,
how will you live?
All these years,
I never won.
But I'm still living a good life, right?
Right.
Right.
But not everyone
is willing to take such a big risk.
No, Mr Jiang.
I understand.
That's all.
If you want to
talk to me later,
call me anytime.
Wait.
I
I had a driver
who worked for me for many years.
But he always made mistakes.
I fired him today.
But he does know
many things.
I'm leaving now.
How many years did you work for Jiang Tian?
I worked for him from 2012
to this morning.
On November 7th
in 2015,
Jiang Tian and you
were attacked on the Couple Street.
Can you tell me
what happened back then?
After Shahai Group
took over the project of the Couple Street,
someone just kept causing them trouble.
The project couldn't get started.
Mr. Jiang was left
with no choice
but ask someone to contact Gao Qiqiang,
wishing to settle it peacefully with him.
Gao Qiqiang
invited him to a meeting
at night on the weekends.
My boss didn't think much and went there.
Boss.
I don't think it's a place
to talk.
He asked me to come here.
How shameless could he be
if he tries to harm me here?
But what if he doesn't follow the rules?
Start the car. Be prepared.
Okay.
Mr. Jiang.
Let’s go.
Where is Gao Qiqiang?
Get in the car. I'll take you to him.
He asked me to come here.
Tell him to talk to me in person.
Looks like you prefer the hard way.
Let's go.
Get in the car.
We got a flat tire.
The car won't move.
Get off!
Where is Jiang Tian?
Where is Jiang Tian?
I'm alone in the car.
Being stubborn, huh? Beat him!
Are you alright?
Doctor! Nurse! Help!
I'm the inspector
of Pingkang Police Station.
They have reported to me
about your case.
But now,
we need to go back to the station
to verify your statement.
Is that okay?
Yes.
Open the door.
Well,
take a rest in the car.
Thank you.
Thank you.
I sent you to the hospital out of kindness.
But you just reported me to the police?
No, it wasn't me. It was the doctor.
The doctor called the police.
Please.
Spare me.
Spare you?
Fine.
Do as I say
when you go to the police station
to make your statement.
When I got to the police station,
I said what Wang Shuai told me to say.
I lied that
Mr. Jiang went to
take a look at the Couple Street.
Then he met a bunch of drunk men.
They had a quarrel
before they fought.
How did they settle the case in the end?
He paid me 20,000 yuan.
Wang Shuai and his men
were only detained for a few days
because of provoking a fight.
Do you have any evidence for what you said?
The dashcam
recorded
what happened that night.
But I didn't dare to give it to the police.
Do you still have the video?
Yes.
The boss told me to keep it.
Judging from
what Lin Asheng said,
the time and details all match.
I've seen
the video of
the dashcam.
It recorded everything,
including how they parked the car and got into a fight.
We have witnesses and evidence.
This time, Wang Shuai
won’t be able to escape.
How about the police station
that received the call?
The inspector who
handled this case
is called Lu Peng.
Lu Peng
is still in his position.
He's been working there
all these years?
There are hospitals and commercial streets
in Pingkang district.
Many people
have been running their business there.
They must've gotten well
with each other all these years.
In my opinion,
if he got promoted,
the money he earns
wouldn't be as much as it is now.
He changed the statement
and punished criminals lightly for a serious crime,
disregarding the interests of the people
and trampling the judicial procedure.
What he did is more than enough to make him face the most serious punishment.
What's his name again?
Lu Peng.
Give me
Lu Peng's investigation form.
Okay.
Check this carefully.
Let's see how many lies he told.
Let me fill your cup.
We have rules.
We can't drink at work.
It's okay. Just a sip.
Inspector Lu.
An Xin.
Why are you here?
I see you guys are having a good time.
You drank such good wine
at noon.
We're not drinking too much.
Have a seat.
Who is
Let me introduce.
Come in.
I'm Fang Ning from the Commission of Discipline Inspection.
Lu Peng,
please come back with us for investigation.
I was just having a meal
with my friends.
Why did you make a fuss and
bring me here?
Looks like
you don't want to cooperate.
I have nothing to say.
Okay.
I have nothing to ask.
I
I need to go to the toilet.
Go ahead.
Where are you going?
You brought me here without asking anything.
You're wasting my time.
You're all here.
Come on. Let's go.