Betting scam linked to killing of Chinese pair

Two Chinese graduates may have been murdered because of their involvement in an internet betting scam and the trading of fraudulent documents, police said last night.

Zhen Xing Yang and his girlfriend, Xi Zhou, both 25, were found dead with head injuries in their flat in the West End of Newcastle on Saturday.

Det Supt Steve Wade, who is leading the inquiry, said: "A possible motive for the killing is beginning to emerge concerning the lifestyle of Xi Zhou and Zhen Xing Yang.

"Community intelligence supported by the examination of computer equipment and mobile call data has shown that both of the victims have been involved in fraudulent activity which has angered and upset a number of people.

"We are investigating this as a possible motive."