PLA backs corruption probe into 'big tigers'

All the officers and soldiers of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) firmly support the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee's decision to investigate former senior military leader Xu Caihou, a Ministry of Defense spokesman said on Thursday.

Xu, former vice chairman of China's Central Military Commission (CMC), has been expelled from the CPC for suspected bribery. His case has been handed over to prosecutors.

"The decision displayed the CPC Central Committee's clear attitude of strictly governing the Party and the army, as well as its firm resolve to fight against corruption and punish corrupt elements with zero tolerance," Geng Yansheng told a monthly press briefing.

Xu's case will have great significance in keeping the military clean, shoring up morale and safeguarding the image of the army, he said.

"All units of the PLA firmly support and will seriously implement the CPC Central Committee's correct decision, and are committed to improving capabilities and building a strong army under the guidance of the CPC Central Committee, the CMC and its Chairman Xi Jinping," Geng said.

An investigation found that Xu took advantage of his post to assist in the promotion of other people. He is also accused of accepting bribes personally and through members of his family.

Xu was also found to have sought profits for others in exchange for money and properties, through his family members.

Prior to Xu, Gu Junshan, deputy head of the General Logistics Department of the PLA, was charged with embezzlement, bribery, misuse of state funds and abuse of power on March 31.

Geng said Gu's trial is pending.