Investigators in northwest China's Gansu have accused a newspaper reporter Zhang Yongsheng of racketeering in response to the arrest of three journalists in January.

The procuratorate said Zhang, with the Lanzhou Morning Post, gained 5,000 yuan from blackmail by citing "clear evidence" such as a confession and video records.

Police in Wuwei city of Gansu earlier detained Zhang on Jan. 7 for soliciting a prostitute.

But due to lack of evidence, the procuratorate has ordered the charges of prostitution dropped.

The investigation found that since 2009 Zhang has used negative news to blackmail organizations and individuals.

Three reporters from local newspapers, including Zhang, had been reported missing in Wuwei on Jan. 7.

Responding to suspicions raised online, the procuratorate launched an investigation in late January.

The two other reporters have since been released on bail.

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