The new romance “Us and Them” raked in 122 million yuan ($19.2 million) in presale tickets last Friday, but days later, local media reported suspicious activity: Online ticketing platform Maoyan had refunded 380,000 tickets valued at 13 million yuan for the film’s Saturday premiere.

Maoyan — which is often cited for Chinese box office figures and estimates — also invested in and distributed the film, and has since been accused of buying tickets solely to create buzz. On Monday, Maoyan issued a statement in which it denied any foul play. The China Film Bureau is reportedly investigating the case.

Box office fraud is not a new phenomenon in China. In March 2016, the distributor for kung fu blockbuster “Ip Man 3” found itself in hot water for buying up 56 million yuan in tickets. (Image: IC)