SHENZHEN - The Shenzhen city government is investigating Gucci, after a Gucci store there was accused of employee abuse, the Shenzhen Human Resources and Social Security Bureau announced on Thursday.

The investigators are looking into the relevant rules and regulations of the Italian label, local officials said.

In an open letter, some former employees of the store claimed they were required to ask permission to use the toilet or drink water, were made to work extra hours unpaid, and had to pay for any items stolen from the shop.

Gucci China removed several managers from their posts and promised a review of its practices on Tuesday, but the accusers said the removal may be a way for Gucci to shift public attention away from its flawed management system.