Arrogance of police chief's killer son a catchphrase of shame

Li Gang, a district police bureau deputy director in Baoding, Hebei, apologised yesterday for his drink-driving son's arrogance after being involved in a fatal hit-and-run road accident. But that has not stopped millions of mainland internet users from turning him one of the most infamous father's in the country.

The son, Li Qiming , 22, ran over two women students while driving at 100km/h through the campus of Hebei University late last Saturday night, then sped away. When he was eventually stopped by security guards and angry students, Li Qiming showed no remorse. In fact, he taunted them, challenging them to take him to court if they thought they could. 'My father is Li Gang,' he said, flouting the law with his father's status.

One of the women died later in hospital, while the other is reported to be in a stable condition. Li Qiming, who police said had been driving under the influence of alcohol, is in police detention.

In an interview with China Central Television this week, Li Gang said he was deeply sorry for the victims and their families. 'As a parent, I've failed to properly teach my son, and I'm extremely guilty of that,' said Li, who broke down in tears several times during the interview.

In a country where fatal traffic accidents are common, the case has gained notoriety and triggered a huge online backlash because of the implication that Li Qiming's flaunting of his father's position would make him invulnerable to any consequences.

Outraged net users quickly identified Li Qiming as a guan er dai, the offspring of a government official. This has resulted in 'My father is Li Gang' becoming an catchphrase that has inspired music videos and poems being posted on the internet ridiculing the younger Li and an emerging social class that he represents, one that common people have come to resent - the children of the rich and powerful.