Clap clap.
Zheng Kaixuan clapped his hands to get everyone's attention.
"You've all read the written statement. Let's hear your thoughts."
"I initially ruled out Chen Kangning as a suspect because he's too fat—he didn't seem physically capable of climbing from a high place. But based on the clues Han Bin provided, we've eliminated the possibility of entry through the window. I think it's time to put him back on the suspect list," said Zhao Ying.
"This guy, Chen Kangning, had such an arrogant attitude. It didn't feel like he came in for questioning—it felt more like he was here to interrogate the police," added Li Hui.
"I think he's highly suspicious," Han Bin said seriously. "He lives in the Linfang residential area and knows the place well. He wouldn't need to enter or exit during the crime. He could avoid the elevator, main gate, and underground garage cameras, leaving no trace behind."
While reviewing the surveillance footage, Han Bin used micro-expression analysis. Though Chen Kangning acted angry during questioning, the anger seemed fake—he didn't show surprise or nervousness.
That didn't align with how an innocent person would normally behave.
Zheng Kaixuan turned to Zhao Ying. "In the previous theft, how did Chen Kangning enter the apartment?"
"According to our files, he's skilled at picking locks. With tools and a master key, he can unlock a basic door lock in under a minute," Zhao Ying replied.
"That explains it. He knows how to pick locks and is familiar with the area. To avoid suspicion, he probably broke the glass on purpose to make it look like someone entered through the window," Zheng Kaixuan analyzed.
"Tch, that guy is sneaky. He nearly fooled us," Li Hui said, smacking his lips.
"Captain Zheng, the issue is, this is all speculation—we have no direct evidence connecting him to the crime," Zhao Ying shrugged.
"That's exactly why he's so arrogant," Zheng Kaixuan muttered.
"Captain, I recommend we apply for a warrant to detain and search him. If he hasn't moved the stolen goods yet, we might catch him red-handed," Li Hui suggested.
"It's been over 30 hours since the crime. He might've already moved the goods," a team member chimed in.
"Every minute counts. I still think we should take him in before he gets a chance to cover his tracks," said Li Hui.
Zheng Kaixuan thought for a moment. "Zhao Ying, take your team and set up surveillance at Chen Kangning's home. Wait for my order."
"Team Two, go check the security footage. See if he's left the community since the crime."
"I'll go apply for the detention and search warrants."
"Yes, sir."
…
Forty minutes later.
Zhao Ying, along with Team One, Han Bin, and Li Hui, arrived at the Linfang community.
Zhao Ying's team set up surveillance.
Han Bin and Li Hui went to the neighborhood office to review surveillance footage from 9 p.m. last night until now.
Tian Li and Zhao Ming stayed at the precinct to check earlier footage, which saved about forty minutes.
Because Chen Kangning was on the heavier side, he was easy to spot in the surveillance videos. Team Two quickly sped through the footage and finished reviewing the gate and underground garage in about an hour.
A while later, Zheng Kaixuan returned with the warrants and gathered Zhao Ying, Han Bin, and Li Hui.
"How's the progress?" Zheng Kaixuan asked.
"We reviewed the footage again. Since the crime, the only time Chen Kangning left the community was when we summoned him for questioning earlier. He didn't have any luggage or bags with him. We believe he hasn't moved the stolen goods," Han Bin analyzed.
"Is he home now?"
"According to the footage, he returned around 1 p.m. and hasn't left since," Han Bin answered.
"I've got people watching the elevator and stairwell," Zhao Ying reported.
Zheng Kaixuan waved his hand. "What are we waiting for? Let's arrest him."
…
Chen Kangning lived in Building 3, Unit 1, Apartment 1702.
Knock knock.
"Who is it?"
"Neighborhood committee."
"What do you want?"
"There's been a string of thefts in the area. We're doing a routine check."
"My place is fine. Go away," Chen Kangning replied.
"That's good. Just need your signature."
"Such a hassle," Chen Kangning grumbled and reluctantly opened the door.
"Don't move—police!"
Team One officers rushed in and surrounded him.
"What the hell is this?" Chen Kangning demanded.
"Chen Kangning, you're suspected of involvement in a series of thefts. We need you to come with us for further investigation," Zhao Ying said, showing the warrant.
"Officer Zhao, are you serious? I just gave a statement this morning. Weren't you the one who let me go?"
"The evidence was insufficient then. Now we're reopening the investigation," Zhao Ying nodded to the team. "Search the place."
"Hey, you can't search my home with just a detention warrant!" Chen Kangning shouted.
"Sounds like you know the law pretty well," Zhao Ying smirked.
"I learned my lesson last time. If I didn't… well, forget it." Chen Kangning muttered.
Zhao Ying showed the search warrant. "How about now? We have the right."
"Whatever," Chen Kangning shrugged, looking unfazed.
"You really don't seem nervous," Han Bin observed.
"I've done nothing wrong. I've got a clear conscience," Chen Kangning said righteously.
Zheng Kaixuan frowned. Chen Kangning was too calm. In his experience, that wasn't a good sign.
Soon, the officers began returning from the search.
"Captain Zheng, nothing found."
"No suspicious items."
"No stolen goods."
"Nothing unusual."
With no results, Zheng Kaixuan's expression turned grim.
…
"You're Captain Zheng, right?" Chen Kangning smiled. "I told you—I had nothing to do with it. You've got the wrong guy."
"It's too early to say that," Zheng Kaixuan said coldly.
"Come on, it's obvious. You and Officer Zhao have it out for me," Chen Kangning muttered.
Zheng Kaixuan waved his hand. "Take him away."
After Chen Kangning was taken into custody, Zhao Ying came over. "Captain, nothing was found at his place that links him to the case."
"Team Two, anything?" Zheng Kaixuan looked to Han Bin and Li Hui.
"Nothing yet," said Li Hui.
Zheng Kaixuan thought for a moment. "You have twelve hours. Find the stolen goods and solid evidence."
"Yes, sir."
"I want to interrogate him personally," Zhao Ying volunteered.
"Captain, I'd like to take the lead on questioning him," Han Bin said at the same time.
Zheng Kaixuan nodded, looked between the two, then settled on Han Bin. He patted his shoulder. "I'm counting on you."
"Yes, sir!"
(End of Chapter)