POLITICS Chinese firm charged with plotting to evade NKorea sanctions WASHINGTON (AP) — The Justice Department on Monday unsealed criminal charges against a China-based company and four Chinese nationals for conspiring to evade U.S. economic sanctions. Also Monday, the Treasury Department blacklisted the same firm, Dandong Hongxiang (DAN'-dong HONG'-sheeang) Industrial Development Company, and individuals. A Treasury Department statement alleged that Hongxiang has provided financial services to the Korea Kwangson Banking Corporation, which is already sanctioned.

September 26, 2016

Last week, Chinese authorities made an unusually explicit announcement that they were investigating Hongxiang. China's dealings with the North are shrouded in secrecy. The announcement is a sign of growing frustration with its traditional ally.

International concern over Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs is deepening following its fifth and largest atomic test explosion this month.