China army reiterates retrieving of official houses, vehicles

China's military authorities have reiterated their vow to seize public housing and vehicles from senior army officials, if the number or size of the properties is deemed higher than standard.

Since the beginning of this year, retrieving of public properties and reduction of redundant staff provided for officials has been regarded as an important task, a statement from the People's Liberation Army (PLA) said on Tuesday.

The move was ordered by military leader and President Xi Jinping to strengthen the military's ties with the people.

Part of China's anti-corruption drive, it allows military and armed police officials and their families to only occupy one public housing unit in a single city, and its size must be appropriate for the official's rank.

Retired officials and the families of deceased officials will also give back extra military residences.

The statement urged strict implementation of the order and encouraged authorities to dare to hold senior officials or their superior leaders accountable if necessary.

Those who conceal or refuse to return the properties may be dealt with according to the Party disciplines, according to the statement.