Six men convicted in an organized-crime trial in Chongqing have been sentenced to death, the Times reported. The trial has been notable for revealing close ties between local gangs and government officials. "This organization illegally controlled the Yubei district… carried out illegal criminal activities against land and construction developers and coerced ordinary people. Their influence has been odious," the court said in issuing the sentences. More than 1,500 people – including three billionaires, 67 gang bosses, 50 officials and 200 police officers – have been arrested in Chongqing since a newly appointed local party head launched a crackdown on gang activities. Former justice bureau director Wen Qiang is among those implicated; he has not yet faced trial.
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