China to fast-track prosecution of terrorists, extremists

Chinese prosecutors, especially those in Xinjiang, are asked to fast-track cases involving terrorists, religious extremists and manufacturers of firearms and explosives, the Supreme People's Procuratorate (SPP) said Thursday.

Counterterrorism is to be a priority of prosecutors as part of tough measures against the "three evil forces" -- terrorism, separatism and extremism. Human trafficking cases will also be fast-tracked, said a statement issued after a meeting on Xinjiang issues.

The statement emphasized that these cases must be handled without discrimination and under the principle of tempering justice with mercy.

The SPP encouraged cooperation between prosecutors in Xinjiang and the rest of the country for a coordinated offensive against terrorists. They are also urged to work with police and communities to root up supporters of terrorism.

Besides fighting terrorism, prosecutors are instructed to protect legitimate rights and interests of people from all ethnic groups and help implement the country's religious policies.

Also on Thursday, the Supreme People's Court instructed courts in Xinjiang to speed up trials of terror cases and deliver exemplary penalties.

The number of terror cells busted in Xinjiang increased from about 140 in 2010 to more than 200 last year.

A series of terrorist attacks in Xinjiang shocked the country this year, with the latest in early August when 37 civilians were killed and another 13 injured in Shache County of Kashgar Prefecture.