Tianjin police have started an investigation into a local health product company that had allegedly made false claims in its advertisements, local authorities said Wednesday.

Last month, the city authorities started an investigation into QuanJian Nature Medicine Technology Development Co. Ltd. following an online accusation that the company had made exaggerated advertisements and was involved in a pyramid scheme.

According to the preliminary investigation, the company is suspected of committing the crimes of pyramid selling and false advertising.

The company also triggered controversy by offering "fire therapy" for patients. Local authorities have shut down fire therapy clinics with safety hazards in the city, and initiated a campaign against illegal activities in the health product market.