Gang crime targeted in provincial crackdown

A work plan was released last week to fight against gang crime and urged provincial-level governments to take measures in this area. According to the general offices of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council, provincial-level authorities should supervise Party committees and governments at lower levels, including counties, townships and villages, to crack down on major cases.

A leading group, headed by the Commission for Political and Legal Affairs of the CPC Central Committee, will be established to lead the campaign, which will continue until the end of next year. By then, assessments will be conducted on the situation.

Supervision will focus on how decisions by central authorities are implemented, results of actions against organized crimes, Party members and officials that are involved in such crimes, gangs damaging grassroots Party organizations, and the roles of those who are in charge of the campaign.

Supervisory teams must make provincial-level plans and the results will be part of the consideration for staff promotions.

Evidence found will be submitted to the political and legal authorities or discipline inspection authorities and procuratorates.

Early this year, China started a campaign against organized crime and officials who provided shelter for crime organizations.

The fight focuses on areas that are affected by gang and organized crime, which had aroused strong public reactions.