A GROUP in the United States calling itself the Ping Pong Exterminators has threatened to start killing illegal Chinese immigrants and smugglers unless they leave the US by August 5.
The New Jersey-based group issued a notice on Independence Day, July 4, giving the illegal Chinese community of that state just one month to leave the country or face bloodshed.
''If you think what is happening in Germany is violent, you ain't seen nothing yet,'' the notice said.
''There will be Chinese blood and bones all over if they don't quit voluntarily.'' It is not yet clear if the previously unknown group represents a serious threat, but the FBI has been informed of the notice and is understood to be investigating the case.
Police in the New Jersey communities specifically mentioned in the notice are also believed to be looking into the matter.
The threat could well turn out to be unfounded but members of the Chinese community in New Jersey are urging the authorities to take the matter seriously.
Analysts said the threat was indicative of the growing discontent among many Americans at the recent massive influx of illegal Chinese immigrants, and the gangs which smuggle them into the country.