A lead and zinc smelter in Shaanxi province is still operating despite a government-ordered closure, the South China Morning Post reported. According to local residents, the Dongling Lead and Zinc Smelting plant in Fengxiang is still refining zinc at night. Residents said the local government has always protected the smelting plant because it is the biggest contributor to the local economy. The plant was originally ordered closed by Fengxiang’s mayor after residents stormed the factory on Monday to protest high lead levels found in local children. Doctors said they found elevated levels in at least 615 children who lived in villages near the plant. More cases may come to light as more children are examined for elevated lead levels.