Xinjiang rewards residents fighting against terrorism

The government of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region granted titles of honor and rewards Wednesday to residents who fought against mobs.

The two groups of residents, one from Hotan City and another from Pishan County, received certificates of honor, medals and rewards worth of 300,000 yuan (about $48,400) and 200,000 yuan respectively. They were praised by their heroic behavior.

In mid June, three assailants with axes entered a games room in Hotan City and attacked civilians playing chess and cards. Many people fought back. Shop keepers rushed to defend their neighbors with sticks and fire extinguisher on hearing the alarm. Two of the attackers were killed in the melee. The third, lucky to escape with his life, was seized by armed law enforcers.

In late May, six villagers in Sangzhu Town of Pishan County found three suspicious people with knives and explosive devices. The villagers were attacked by the mobs when approaching them for inquiry, but fought back and captured the three terrorist suspects, many daggers, knives and 12 explosive devices.

Since Xinjiang has launched a special anti-terrorism campaign, all ethnic groups have pledged "zero tolerance" for terrorism. Many ordinary people join forces with the government and the police in the fight against terrorists.

Their heroic behavior demonstrates the traditional virtues of Chinese people and the spirit of Xinjiang, the regional government said.

It also said these heroes manifest confidence and resolve of all ethnic groups in supporting the campaign against terrorists.

The local government called on all government officials and common people to learn from these two groups, maintain vigilance, advocate social justice, safeguard national unity, and contribute to the long-term stability and prosperity of the region.