River Lishui, located in the south of the state of Chu, abounded in alluvial gold.
To monopolize the mineral resources, the government issued a law stating that anyone caught panning secretly in the river would be torn asunder by five carts.
The bodies of those executed were thrown into the river, blocking the water flow and raising the water level. Although many had been killed for panning stealthily, many others continued to defy the law and pan for gold.
This was because they believed not every panner would be caught. Thus, despite the harsh punishment, many still counted on their luck.