BEIJING

Thousands nabbed in gambling campaign

China has cracked 257 cases and arrested more than 11,500 suspects since it launched a campaign against cross-border gambling and related crimes on Feb 28. Police across the country have busted 368 gambling platforms involving more than 229 billion yuan ($32.3 billion), according to a statement from the Ministry of Public Security on Monday. The ministry has a "zero tolerance" policy for cross-border gambling and related crimes, said the statement, noting that the police will continue to resolutely crack down on these crimes. The ministry urged those who organize and participate in cross-border gambling to stop their illegal activities immediately and turn themselves in voluntarily, the statement said.

Officials ordered to answer questions

Government officials have been ordered to attend and answer questions at trials related to influential incidents, including dealing with environmental protection or public health, a newly released judicial interpretation said. The document, issued on Tuesday by the Supreme People's Court, China's top court, will take effect on July 1. "The aim of the interpretation is to protect residents' legitimate rights and thoroughly solve their conflicts with government agencies as well as improve officials' abilities in governance by rule of law," the top court said in a statement. The interpretation orders government officials to explain administrative rules and respond to plaintiffs' questions during trials, instead of just passively appearing in court.

Xinhua - China Daily